The use of Parables in Preaching

Preaching plays a very important part in the ministry of the word. I found the advice by Jonny Baker, "Throwing a Hand Grenade in the Fruit Bowl" interesting. The suggestion of using parables and sometimes without explanation is strategically an important excercise. I tend to think that the use of parable is absolutely relevant in my context. Preachers tend to speak more about interpreting the bible more plainly because people may not be able to read. Sometimes the clear explanation of things allows no one to think for themeseves. However the elders of our communities always use paparble when they speak. They use parables in their communication. Parables are associated with elders who knew much about life and the sacreds of life. Preaching therefore must must use the parables that speak more clearly but with rich meanings and diversity. People will start to loose the use of parable if the church cannot make use it. Parables kept sacared knowledge, enable people to think and see things for themselves. Preaching with language that is too banal, down to earth and clear sometimes looses hope for sacredness and holiness so strong in Melanesia.