Discovering the Mysteries in the Parables of Jesus 

What if the stories Jesus told held more than moral lessons—what if we can learn the mysteries of the Kingdom of God?

In this deeply engaging book, pastor and best-selling author Kenneth Behr invites readers on a journey through the parables of Jesus—not simply to uncover moral guidance or everyday applications, but to explore the surprising mysteries Jesus intended to reveal. These were not just stories for the crowds; they were revelations—spoken in plain sight, yet hidden from those unwilling to hear.

Each carefully chosen parable is unpacked with clarity and reverence, bringing fresh insight to even the most familiar passages. From banquets and vineyards to servants and seeds, Jesus spoke of the Kingdom of God in ways that were both comforting and confronting. What many hear as quaint or poetic, the author shows to be piercing and profound.

Discovering the Mysteries in the Parables of Jesus is for every believer who has ever sensed there is more beneath the surface of Jesus’ words—and who longs to hear His voice again through the stories He chose to tell. Thoughtfully written and spiritually rich, this book opens the door to wonder, reflection, and transformation. 

Available in both Paperback and Kindle versions. Get your copy on Amazon, or at Barnes and Noble and select retailers.   Click here for the Press Release

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About the Author

Dr. Kenneth Behr is the founder of Faith Dialogue, a ministry dedicated to building up the body of Christ, encouraging pastors, and strengthening churches. Before stepping into full-time ministry, and serving as a senior pastor, he had a successful career in business. Over the past twenty years, his love for Scripture and the Church has led him to serve in many leadership roles, including as President of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), headquartered in Washington, DC.

Known by many simply as Pastor Ken, his teaching style blends biblical depth with clarity, helping readers understand not just what Jesus said—but why it still matters today. With a passion for making the truths of Scripture accessible and unforgettable, Pastor Ken brings fresh insight into even the most familiar texts.

He and his wife Carol have been married for over 40 years and are blessed with two children and five grandchildren. Pastor Ken holds a doctorate in pastoral theology and was ordained by the Evangelical Church Alliance. More about his ministry can be found at www.faithdialogue.org.

 

What people are saying about the book! 

 

Chock-full of New Insights

This book provides new insight into the well-known parables of Jesus. Have you ever thought of the generosity of the Sower, how He freely spreads seed onto rocky soil? Or have you recognized that the parable of the wedding banquet was a peak into God’s plan to open the kingdom of heaven up to Gentiles? This book is a quick read, but chock-full of new insights to consider and inspiration to be a participant in God’s plan.

Discovering the Mysteries in the Parables of Jesus is an inspiring, in-depth study of Jesus’ 35 parables, stories told to hide the truth from some while revealing it to others. As a Sunday school teacher, I have taught each of these parables numerous times. After reading Pastor Ken’s book, I realize that I was only scratching the surface of the deep mysteries that Christ was explaining. Pastor Ken thoughtfully goes through each parable, explaining the context of the parable, the primary message, the prophetic mysteries (in light of other scripture) and he concludes with an inspiring and practical application of how the parable should change your life. This book is a wonderful and entertaining read on its own, while being a valuable reference if teaching a lesson on the parables. This book could also serve as a daily devotional as the explanation of each parable is a quick read that will change my priorities for the day.

 -Patricia Cash, Independent Biotechnology Consultant, and Sunday School Teacher

A Must Read

The literary prowess of Dr. Ken Behr is on full display with his newest effort. The ability to bring to life an age-old story with truth, understanding, compassion and zest is a testament to his dedication and makes this a must read.

 - George and Laura Schmid, Board Members, Business owners and Executive Directors  

Excellent as a Daily Devotional

Ken’s books are always a joy for me to read, and this one is no exception.  This is an excellent book to read as a daily devotional or as a reference to go back to again and again. Ken does a masterful job of unpacking the profound mystery and timeless truth behind each of Jesus’ parables.  I especially enjoyed the chapter on the Parable of the Persistent Widow (Chapter 33).  Thanks Ken, for your writing and teaching!

-  Dr. Drew Hage, Pastor

Get Ready for a Great Read!

This book is clear, concise, and easily understood and is intended for serious bible students, teachers, and clergy as well as the lay person who has just begun their journey through God’s word. It is not necessary for the reader to have specialized knowledge or expertise but rather an open heart and a thirst for the truth of God’s word!

Pastor Ken skillfully ferrets out the mysteries of the parables which Jesus used while teaching his disciples. This book reveals the truth of the parables to those who would “hear” as well as the deeper truths which were  previously concealed from those enigmatic “hearers” who were not receptive. Many of the parables have prophetic messages which creates the opportunity for the reader to dig more deeply into God’s final plan. A BONUS: Pastor Ken created and used AI generated graphics which captures the readers attention as an introduction to each parable. Get ready for a great read!

- Bob Johnson, Retired Certified Lay Minister and Adult Sunday School Teacher (still active)

The Mysteries of God’s Kingdom—Past, Present, and Future

In “Discovering the Mysteries in the Parables of Jesus,” Kenneth Behr skillfully unveils the hidden truths of the Kingdom that Jesus revealed through His parables to His Jewish followers and disciples. Behr invites readers on a journey into the mysteries of God’s Kingdom—past, present, and future—echoing the promise of Jeremiah 33:3. Through studying these passages, and by the power of the Holy Spirit, readers will find their faith in Jesus’ Kingship strengthened and fortified.

Thank you, Ken, for this powerful and faith-building work!

-Dennis J. Nelson, A servant of the King

Slowly, An Image Emerges

As I read through the Parables that Ken discusses in his book, I feel like I have been handed mental enlightenment!  Not just once, but each time I read Ken's insight about a particular Parable! I'm reminded of those 3D pictures that, if you stare at long enough and focus on it in a particular manner,  an image emerges that up to that point, was unnoticeable to you.  That's what Ken's Parable insights did for me.  I highly recommend that you read it and plan to take plenty of notes.  This would make a great life group bible study as well!"

 -Jim Read, Commercial Realtor, part-time apologist.

Let Me Introduce You to My Father!

Ken is doing us all a favor through the inspiration of the Spirit.  What we might toil a lifetime trying to discern, Ken has made plain in his book.  By elevating our understanding of how great a Father we have through the parables of Jesus, Ken is doing what I’ve known him to do all along:  Let me introduce you to my Father.  I feel refreshed by the harvest found in this book and in my friend, Ken.”

 -Tim Ingram, Lead Pastor | illuminate church

insightful and Powerful

“Discovering the Mysteries of the Parables of Jesus" by Kenneth Behr provides an insightful and powerful exploration of biblical truths. Pastor Ken has a unique gift for interpreting scripture, which brings Jesus' teachings to life with remarkable clarity and makes them especially relevant today.

This book has been a true blessing, rekindling my love for God and strengthening my faith. Pastor Ken's insights not only deepen my understanding of Jesus' teachings but also draw me closer to Him. I am genuinely grateful for the enrichment this book has brought to my spiritual journey.

-Di Bellavotti / Worship Leader / Songwriter & Music Producer

These Teachings Will Awaken Wonder

Pastor Ken brings fresh insight to the Parables of Jesus, uncovering their mystery and meaning by placing them in proper context. His reflections guide us into the dual reality of the Kingdom of God—the “already” at work in the present and the “not yet” we still long for. Whether the parables are familiar or new to you, these teachings will awaken wonder and invite you to live with Kingdom vision.

-Frank Scognamillo Director, Celebrate Seniors

Unlocking the Leadership Lessons Hidden in Scripture

Ken Behr’s “Discovering the Mysteries in the Parables of Jesus” offers a unique and insightful exploration into the profound truths found in Jesus’s teachings. With thoughtful commentary and fresh perspectives, this book brings new depth to familiar parables, helping readers uncover timeless wisdom.

One of the standouts for me is The Parable of the Talents. It powerfully illustrates how each of us is entrusted with different gifts and abilities—and how God calls us to faithfully steward and multiply what we’ve been given. As a business leader, I see this parable as a blueprint for empowering others: providing resources, encouraging personal development, giving honest feedback, and rewarding effort and initiative.

Ultimately, this parable is a beautiful picture of servant leadership—a model that challenges us to lead with purpose, humility, and accountability. This book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to grow in faith, leadership, and their understanding of God’s calling.

-Kevin Cramton

CEO/Executive Chairman, Board Member, Executive/Operating Partner, Author/Speaker/Lecturer

Explaining the Culture, Times & Context

I loved reading Pastor Ken Behr’s new book, “Discovering the Mysteries in the Parables of Jesus”. I’ve read the parables many times and some I never fully understood or maybe never gave enough study. The parables of the “Worthless Servant” and “the Unfruitful Tree” are two examples that have been puzzling for me.  They didn’t seem to fit the character of Jesus I had painted in my mind.  Pastor Behr does a great job of explaining these parables, and others, in a way that anyone can understand and more importantly apply.  And I especially love how Pastor Behr explains the culture, times and context of the parables.  This method brought the parables to life with a deeper truth and understanding for me.

  • Ken Valentine, Volunteer Logistics Coordinator/Samaritan's Purse /Operation Christmas Child


This Book is an Amazing Eye Opener

The Parables are some of Pastor Ken Behr’s finest work to date, as he unpacks the mysteries of Jesus’ teachings in compelling ways to help us better understand our Savior and King — Jesus. I was amazed at how much I had let slip by, simply by not taking the time to really let these powerful stories speak to me. This book is an amazing eye-opener, and I highly recommend it to anyone. Pastor Ken highlights prophecy in a number of these parables, such as the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats and the Ten Virgins, presenting them wonderfully in a convincing and conclusive way.

  • James Devericks, Chairman and CEO, SuperCloud Global Holdings, Inc.

Not Just Bible Stories

Ken's insight about Jesus' Parables and how he reveals their "mysteries" to the reader is extraordinary.  They are so much more than "just Bible stories."  Ken shows how Christ's parables revealed God's Kingdom not only to His disciples but more importantly how very relevant the Parables are today!! Great devotional book!

  • Georgie Oshman, Paralegal

Brimming With Layers of Meaning

I was hooked from the first explanation of what Jesus’ parables are: “They are profound vehicles of divine truth, brimming with layers of meaning that unfold as we study them.” The author provided new depth and meaning to me by logically and methodically uncovering the surrounding context. To understand who Jesus is and what He was teaching, I need to know the who, what, where, why, and how around the story. This book is ideal for a wide audience, from skeptics to faithful followers. For me, it answers many questions and brings an increased love and thirst to know more about Jesus, the Savior of the world!

  • Leslie Read, Christian artist & songwriter

Seeds That Take Root and Bloom

Jesus Himself called them “The secrets of the kingdom of heaven” and said, “I do not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me to say all that I have spoken” (John 12:49), making the parables God’s secrets given to us all for consideration. But then Christ also cautioned, “Whoever has will be given more… but whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken.” This statement itself is part of the mystery—what is it that we will be “given more” of, or have “taken”? Understanding of the Kingdom.

Pastor Ken’s scholarly and well-communicated search through all of these “secrets from God” did not happen overnight. It’s the result of a lifetime of love and “zeal for the Lord.” If you get nothing else from this “labor of love” besides the Pastor’s zeal, you will have gained richly. But you will receive much more that will take root and bloom!

As Pastor Ken points out in the Parable of the Mustard Seed, “He (Jesus) plants images (through His parables) in our minds, and like the seed itself, the meaning begins to grow!” In his analysis of the Parable of the Unfruitful Tree, Pastor Ken discusses the underlying “profound and humbling mystery”—that “the Gardener is still watching.” Will we bear fruit? “We’ve been given time, truth, nurture, and care. And the question now is not what Israel did two thousand years ago—but what we are doing with the time we’ve been given. This is not just about a tree. It’s about us. And the Gardener is still waiting.”

I’m quite sure that this Christ-centered and deeply rich collection will bless your walk. We owe our brother in Christ a big Amen!

—James Aman, Inventor and Seeker

Difficult To Set Aside

The “Mysteries” is difficult to set aside. The parables of Jesus seem all too familiar until you read a few chapters in Ken’s book and then you keep reading with an appetite for more. There is present day prophetic gold to be mined in the Parable of the Fig Tree. Read on!!

  • Paul Greasley, PhD, Retired space propulsion engineer and adjunct professor

Our Shared Foundation

In 'Discovering the Mysteries in the Parables of Jesus,' Kenneth Behr, a Protestant minister, illuminates the core messages of Christ's teachings through his engaging exploration of the parables. Though from a different tradition, I, as a Catholic priest, find in this work a shared foundation of Christian belief, and an encouragement for all Christians to better understand the parables, and share them."

  • Patrick Baikauskas , OP Resident Scholar, Aquinas Institute

Go-To Resource


Ken keenly describes the richness and depth of Jesus’ parables. His book combines theological and contextual understanding with practical application. It will be my go-to from now on for my sermon preparation on parables.

-Rev. Frans Van Santen, Rector Grace Episcopal Church