Interpretation of God's Writings
God has revealed Himself through events and teaching that has been written into forms of literature that are common to the cultures of the ages. As we have different kinds of literature in our modern world, so also the Bible reflects God's teaching through different kinds of literature from the days of its writing. Our task in understanding that literature involves the process of, not only translating the literature from its original language, but also interpreting the meaning and style of the literature from past cultures.
See Matthew 15:14-15 as an example; it could be a story or just a proverb -- the use varies.
A Parable is a narrative constructed for conveying an important spiritual truth.
A parable is possible -- a fable is not possible (see Judges 9:8-15 and 2 Kings 14:9).
Use of parables by Christ.
Rules for interpreting parables.
Determine the scope of teaching, seize that one central truth, make all details fit to that truth.
No conclusion should be gathered from any part of the parable.
Parables should not be made the first source or the sole source of doctrine.