Come Be My Follower - Jehovah's Witnesses Official Media Web Site

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“COMEBEMYFOLLOWER”
is an outstanding example of Jesus’ generous use of word
pictures. According to one count, this sermon contains
over 50 figures of speech. To put that in perspective, keep
in mind that this sermon can be read aloud in about 20
minutes. At that rate, a figure of speech is uttered, on average,
nearly every 20 seconds! Clearly, Jesus saw the value
of painting a picture with words!
7 As followers of Christ, we want to imitate his way of
teaching, including his use of illustrations. Like the seasonings
that make a meal more appetizing, effective illustrations
can make our teaching more appealing to others.
Well-thought-out word pictures can also make important
truths easier to grasp. Let us now take a closer look at
some of the factors that made Jesus’ illustrations so effective.
Then we will be able to see how we can put this
valuable teaching method to good use.
Using Simple Comparisons
8 In his teaching, Jesus often used comparisons that were
uncomplicated, requiring just a few words. Yet, the simple
words painted vivid mental images and clearly taught
important spiritual truths. For example, when urging his
disciples not to be anxious over daily needs, he pointed
to “the birds of heaven” and “the lilies of the field.”
The birds do not sow and reap, nor do the lilies spin and
weave. Still, God cares for them. The point is easy to see
—namely, that if God takes care of birds and flowers, surely
he will look after humans who “keep . . . seeking first
the kingdom.”—Matthew 6:26, 28-33.
9 Jesus also made generous use of metaphors, which are
even more forceful comparisons. A metaphor refers to
7. Why imitate Jesus’ use of illustrations?
8, 9. How did Jesus make use of simple comparisons, and what
made the comparisons he drew so effective?