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Truth Missiles: The Explosive Parables of Jesus

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Truth The Explosive Parables of Jesus

Jesus’ parables aren’t just stories—they are truth missiles, designed to challenge, confront, and transform lives.

Many people learned the parables in Sunday school but never revisited them as adults. Yet these short, powerful stories were Jesus’ primary way of teaching, packed with profound biblical wisdom and deep spiritual truths. In his new, and always engaging, book "Truth Missiles", pastor and bible teacher Peter JR Smith uses both his biblical understanding and real world experience to explore these timeless lessons, sharing not only the meaning of the parables, but showing how they remain just as explosive and relevant today as when Jesus first spoke them.

Through clear explanations, fresh insights, and modern-day “Not-a-Parables”, across 33 short, bite-sized chapters, this book will bring the parables powerfully to life, helping you understand Jesus’ teachings, revealing the original message of his parables with clarity, and all in a way that speaks directly to your everyday challenges.

What You’ll Discover in This The real meaning behind Jesus’ most famous parables—and why they still matter today
How these stories reveal God’s Kingdom, justice, and grace
Practical ways to apply Jesus’ teachings to your life and faith
✔ Modern-day retellings that make the parables more relatable than ever
✔ Deep but accessible insights—perfect for personal study or group discussion


Who Is This Book For?✅ Christians who want to grow deeper in their faith
✅ Bible study groups looking for engaging discussion material
✅ Seekers who are curious about Jesus’ teachings
✅ Anyone who feels stuck in their faith and wants a fresh perspective

Jesus’ parables demand a response—are you ready to hear, understand, and act?

★ Buy now and discover the power of Jesus’ parables today!

220 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 3, 2025

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4 people want to read

About the author

Peter J.R. Smith

2 books3 followers
Peter JR Smith is a pastor, author, and lifelong student of the Bible with a passion for making Jesus’ teachings clear, engaging, and relevant for today’s world.

Having lived a previous life in aerospace engineering and business, Peter now brings a blend of deep Biblical insight, real-world application and a warm sense of humour into his writing. His unique and accessible approach helps readers see the words of the Bible in a new light and apply them to their daily lives.

Based in the rural Cotswolds of England, Peter is part of the ministry team at St.David’s, Moreton in Marsh; a member of the North Cotswold Gospel Partnership. The Gospel Partnerships are a growing network of Bible believing partnerships and churches throughout the UK, seeking to reach the country with the life changing news of Jesus.

When he’s not working, Peter enjoys spending time with his wife and three children, ideally (but not always) travelling. He also enjoys drawing cartoons, roasting his own coffee, churning butter, and taking on diy projects of increasing size and ambition.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Mehmet Çalışkan.
Author 8 books141 followers
October 28, 2025
Peter JR Smith’s Truth Missiles: The Explosive Parables of Jesus is a book on religious topics. In addition to presenting Jesus’ parables in a modern style, it also connects them to contemporary experiences through “Not-a-Parables” examples. I believe it offers a suitable reading experience for those who want to rediscover the parables of the Bible and enjoy drawing practical life lessons from religious stories.
Profile Image for Olivia Troy.
Author 1 book13 followers
October 29, 2025
heavy material

This book is both thought-provoking and challenging — definitely not your typical faith read. Peter J.R. Smith does an excellent job unpacking the parables of Jesus in a way that feels fresh and direct, often hitting harder than you expect (which, I think, is the point). Each “truth missile” lands with purpose, encouraging self-reflection and real-world application rather than surface-level inspiration.

What I appreciated most is how the author doesn’t water things down. He invites readers to wrestle with uncomfortable truths — about faith, complacency, and what following Jesus truly looks like. The tone is passionate and at times convicting, but still rooted in compassion and biblical grounding.

My only reason for giving it 4 stars instead of 5 is that a few sections felt a bit repetitive or overly intense in tone. A bit more balance or nuance would have made it easier to absorb all the heavy material. Still, this is a powerful and worthwhile read for anyone ready to have their comfort zone shaken and their faith re-energized.
29 reviews1 follower
November 8, 2025
In Truth Missiles, some of the discussions on the parables are better than others. Despite my extensive study on the Bible, a writer usually gives me new ideas or perspectives, which didn't happen here. That isn't to say someone else couldn't find something new in this book, just that I didn't. Some of the stories of modern life are quite good. For others the relationship with the parable is very tenuous. The discussion/thought questions at the end of each 'chapter' are mostly good.

There are a few characterizations that could be taken by some people as confirmations of their prejudices. This really bothered me. There are also a few places where only males seem to be on the author's mind. In terms of format, I'd especially question how the footnotes were done. These were mostly personal aside comments (sometimes nicely humorous) and it seems as if they should have been included in the text or at the bottom of the page.

One thing I noticed in some of the commentary is a stress on judgement and threat of hell. No forgiveness. But in talking about humans being forgiving, they are supposed to be unlimited & unending in forgiveness ("however many times it takes"). All this made the author's interpretation of the last parable ironic. He says the servant who buried the talent didn't trust in the kindness of the master. Yet after reading the hell and damnation comments, someone might legitimately say, 'Well, of course the servant didn't trust in the kindness of the master! The master expects the servants to be endlessly forgiving, but has no intention of BEING forgiving.'

Commentary I thought was especially good on The Prodigal Son, the Net, and the Laborers in the Vineyard. There was also a portion in the Lesson of the Fig Tree I very much liked.
3 reviews
December 9, 2025
If you want a primer on the parables that doesn't feel like a standard, theological Bible commentary, "Truth Missiles" by Peter J.R. Smith is a solid choice. It basically does exactly what it promises: acts as a powerful call to reflect, grow, and actually live out the truths Jesus taught.

Smith writes in a way that’s easy to connect with—conversational, insightful, and surprisingly funny. Since the chapters are short, I found it really convenient for reading one a day, though I could easily see it working for a book club too. The standout for me was the inclusion of modern "Not-a-Parables." They really help you see the history through a modern lens.

I do have three suggestions for a second edition, though. 1). Alter the format in such a way that biblical text is immediately distinguishable from the commentary without having a separate Bible handy. 2). Cut out some of the repetition, and , 3). Yes, I understand that the tone/author voice is meant to be explosive, and match the theme/title of the book, but I think a handful of slow and/or nuanced burners would make the big bangs more effective.

Despite these minor gripes, this serves as both a great intro for beginners and a nice refresher if you're revisiting these stories. It combines scholarship with application in a way that actually soars. I can imagine "Truth Missiles" being used in Church small group settings quite effectively.
Profile Image for Select Reviews.
188 reviews13 followers
October 22, 2025
Peter JR Smith’s “Truth Missiles: The Explosive Parables of Jesus: How Jesus’ Stories Challenge, Confront, and Change Lives” is exactly what the title says – and more. The book introduces the parables of Jesus Christ in a conversational tone that many individuals may appreciate more than hearing the same words in a sermon.

The book is well written, edited, and formatted. It is a valuable primer for those unfamiliar with the parables, as well as an equally valuable refresher for those who have previously listened to or read the parables but are interested in revisiting them.

One suggestion that might improve future editions of the book would be to print the actual parables in bold print or italics to separate them from the rest of the text. Otherwise, Smith’s compilation and explanation of parables is a very practical, agreeable, and effective way to share the teachings of Jesus Christ.



Profile Image for Gloria Oforka.
Author 6 books3 followers
November 10, 2025
Jesus delivered many of His teachings through parables, simple yet deeply meaningful stories that engage our minds and deliver divine truth directly into our hearts. Through these parables, Jesus reveals the mysteries of God’s kingdom and separates those who are willing to listen and receive from those who turn away. I see Jesus as the Son of God, and His teachings are the true wisdom, the living Word of God revealed to all humanity and everyone who cares to listen.
One of my favourite parables is the Parable of the Sower, which encourages us to keep spreading the Word of God faithfully and to pray that it finds good soil, producing an incredible harvest in people’s lives. The parables remind us that our response to God’s Word is what truly matters.
Truth Missiles captures this spiritual reality beautifully, inspiring readers to listen deeply, reflect sincerely, and allow God’s truth to transform their hearts.
Gloria
Profile Image for Ali zabala.
Author 67 books4 followers
November 5, 2025
The best book I've read in two days! I can't believe I finished it so quickly.
In this book, author Peter J.R. Smith presents a fresh and explosive perspective on the parables of Christ, explaining that they were not merely educational stories for children, but rather "missiles of truth" designed to challenge hearts and minds, confronting people with the reality of faith and spiritual life.
The author explores 33 of Christ's parables in a clear, engaging style, imbued with profound theological understanding, combining meticulous biblical study with modern, practical application. Through his smooth and humorous style, Smith breathes new life into these ancient parables, allowing them to speak to our daily lives and reveal God's justice, grace, and the depths of His kingdom.
I give this book a fantastic 5 stars.
65 reviews4 followers
October 18, 2025
I picked up this one out of curiosity more than anything else, and I have to admit that it surprised me. The author uses Jesus' parables,stories I've heard a thousand times,and somehow or another makes them hit differently. The "Not-a-Parables" parts were enjoyable too, like modern-day short stories that make you think.

The chapters are absurdly short, so you can read a few at bedtime or while waiting for the children. I liked that 1/ the lessons were accomplishable and 2/ the language didn't get too difficult for someone like me, who's not even a native English speaker. Tbh, I'm still trying to figure out why some things felt a bit repetitive towards the end, but overall it was worth it.

Great utilization of my KU account, I'm happy for that :-)
Profile Image for Thalia Jones.
18 reviews2 followers
November 12, 2025
This excellent book covers 33 of Jesus’ parables. Each is given its own chapter, which ends with questions for reflection for the readers and steps they can take to further deepen their understanding of Jesus’ teachings. Books on this topic can so easily become dry and inaccessible for people perhaps rusty on their Bible passages (me!) but this book is a refreshing antidote. It’s written in a conversational, clear style (there are even jokes!) that’s both easy to read and learn from. It’s a short book, but I found myself often putting it down to ponder the points it made. I especially appreciated the parable about the prodigal son, which deepened my understanding of the story more than any other teaching. Thank you!
Profile Image for Ela Sharp.
Author 2 books20 followers
November 15, 2025
This was the first book I’ve read about Bible parables, and it offered a refreshing new way to experience the Bible itself (in the form of truth missiles). I enjoyed both the parables and the non-parable reflections. It’s a gentle reminder that no matter what happens, we should strive to stay on the true path. Not necessarily the easiest or most enjoyable one.
This spiritual book beautifully encourages readers to keep following God’s way, even when the road feels difficult. Have faith, keep walking, and stay focused on what truly matters. I especially appreciated the reflections at the end of each chapter; they serve as a thoughtful self-check.
A wonderful and uplifting read to keep life centered and grounded in today’s busy world.
Profile Image for Linda Meris.
73 reviews13 followers
October 22, 2025
This book is a spiritual wake-up call. We must attain to higher consciousness, for the kingdom will grow and the harvest is coming. As said in book, the biblical facts are the truth, and some do not want to hear the truth directly inside their hearts. So parables soften- almost poetically what we need to know. There is much chaos among us and the new kingdom will bring a better life. We should not be unprepared and spiritually asleep. I, myself, believe the good spiritual forces will intervene against evil doers. It can happen any day as “truth missiles.” So Listen, really Listen and believe.
Author 1 book18 followers
November 4, 2025
I loved this book. It reminded me that Jesus’ parables aren’t cute Sunday-school stories, they’re meant to shake us up and make us think. The author explains each parable in a way that feels honest, clear, and really down-to-earth.

What I appreciated most is how the lessons connect to real life without feeling preachy. The modern “not-a-parable” examples made everything click, and the humor kept it from feeling heavy.

If you’ve ever thought you already knew the parables, this book will surprise you. It helped me see Jesus’ teaching with fresh eyes , challenging, comforting, and honestly, exactly what I needed right now. Highly recommended.
31 reviews2 followers
November 7, 2025
Rediscovering Jesus’ Parables Through Modern Eyes

The book Truth Missiles: The Explosive Parables of Jesus by Peter Jr. Smith is a fresh take on something familiar to those who regularly attend Sunday school.
Every chapter ends with questions for reflection and one thing you can do, which is like spreading goodness out of good faith. Although this book is specifically focused on Christians, or more importantly, practicing Christians, it is also a good read for those who seek and are curious about Jesus’ teachings. Being good and kind to others isn’t confined to one religion or society but belongs to the whole of humanity.
Profile Image for Gloria Boakye.
Author 8 books6 followers
January 9, 2026
One of my best reads so far! The introduction beautifully highlights the connection between true love and obedience, and the parent–child analogy, where words fail to match actions; this felt incredibly relatable! I also appreciated the clear definition of a parable and how the author shows its power to break through even the most hardened hearts. The practical applications at the end of each section are genuinely helpful and make the teachings easy to apply. I highly recommend this to all believers. The writing is beautiful, well‑researched, and thoroughly referenced. Well done, an excellent work indeed!
Profile Image for P..
Author 1 book11 followers
October 16, 2025
Refreshingly insightful

As a minister and biblical scholar, I found this book refreshingly insightful. The author rightly emphasises that parables aren't comfortable children's stories but challenging truths that challenge us. His accessible approach doesn't sacrifice depth—the short chapters, modern retellings, and reflection questions make these "truth missiles" come alive for contemporary readers. It's good to find a book that bridges scholarly understanding with practical application so well.
Profile Image for Brenda E. Mcdaniel.
135 reviews18 followers
October 17, 2025
A great read!

This book was very well written and touches your heart, mind and soul as a Christian. It was about Jesus's parables, that he told his disciples, throughout his ministry. The parables were from Mark in the Bible. The author also at the end of each chapter, asks the readers questions about how these parables might relate to their lives? Jesus's parables or words are still powerful today, help change people's lives and guides them in their Christian lives or walk. The book needs some editing in sentence structure in some places, though. A great read!
Profile Image for Neal Owens.
Author 7 books12 followers
December 15, 2025
This book surprised me at the beginning because of these words - "Jesus was not on a mission to be nice." I totally agree and was surprised to hear those words because most teachers of Jesus words stay away from Jesus sayings, like, "Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword." (St. Matthew 10:34 - AKJV)

I liked the Study sections after each chapter. I liked the insight and direction of the topics though I disagreed a little on some interpretations. Overall, this is an excellent book and highly recommended for bible study for teens to seniors.
Profile Image for Larry Vaughn.
Author 3 books48 followers
February 8, 2026
Pastor Smith has done an excellent job of taking the lessons he’s learned from Jesus’ Parables and passing them on to us. This book summarizes thirty-three of Jesus’ teachings about loving our neighbor and the Kingdom of God.

First, he reprints the actual Bible verses that tell the story of The Good Samaritan and The Prodigal Son, for example. Then, he tells us what their stories have to do with us today. In short, he has taken the Apostle Paul’s advice to, “Preach the word.” And that’s the mark of an excellent teacher of God’s Word. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
Profile Image for Kingsley Layton.
348 reviews7 followers
September 27, 2025
There's a lot to like about this book.

The style of writing is excellent and the humour is spot-on.

The introduction to Parables is great and necessary.

The first half of the book contains the best analysis.

One or two are a little too shallow, but I guess he's avoiding them becoming a thesis of sorts.

I would definitely recommend to any who thinks they have a handle on the Parables and thinks Jesus is meek and mild.
(He's no hippy - here's the proof)
34 reviews2 followers
October 17, 2025
Truth Missiles offers a fresh and captivating look at the parables of Jesus, revealing how bold, disruptive, and life-changing His teachings truly were. The insights are deep yet easy to understand, with real-life application that challenges and inspires. Whether you’ve heard these parables a hundred times or are reading them anew, this book will make you see them in a whole new light. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Unscripted Chic.
Author 9 books18 followers
November 6, 2025
This is a powerful and eye-opening read. I loved how this book breaks down Jesus’ parables in a way that is relevant to today’s world. Each story really makes you think and reflect on your own life. I especially liked how the lessons felt both challenging and encouraging at the same time. This book definitely deepened my understanding of Jesus’ teachings. A must-read for anyone wanting to grow in faith and perspective!
Profile Image for Adrian Warnock.
Author 4 books52 followers
February 11, 2026
Time for Christians to be Jesus followers!

It’s been surprising to me for decades that Christians often pay little attention to the actual teachings of Jesus. We love to read the doctrines found in the epistles and maybe the stories in the Old Testament. Peter Smith bucks that trend by bringing us to the parables of Jesus and shows us they are truly dynamite not merely nice stories! Designed to get under the skin and prompt real change this book will help you LIVE the message Jesus himself taught.
Profile Image for Castellia Dane.
Author 3 books5 followers
December 1, 2025
This author does an amazing job of teaching 33 parables of Jesus. The explanations are biblically sound and very relatable. He takes each parable and shows you how you personally are included in it and gives reflection questions at the end of each.

This would make for a great small group Bible study for new and experienced Christians.

Overall it is a great read full of insight.
Profile Image for Leanne Davidson.
Author 2 books9 followers
January 17, 2026
A Fresh Look at Parables

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author provided a fresh perspective on Jesus’ parables in a way that was engaging, humorous and thought provoking without sounding preachy. I found myself thinking, “I would enjoy a coffee and a chat with this guy!” I appreciated the reflection questions at the end of each chapter and enjoyed the little drawings!
Profile Image for Evie Rey.
Author 2 books6 followers
January 30, 2026
Truth Missiles reframes Jesus’ parables as they were meant to be heard, unsettling, and deeply personal. Peter JR Smith blends solid biblical grounding with humor and modern insight, making familiar passages feel urgent and alive again. It’s accessible without being shallow, challenging without being heavy, and perfect for thoughtful, everyday faith.
Profile Image for Rob Slattery.
Author 1 book9 followers
November 10, 2025
Truth Missiles gives a fresh, practical look at Jesus’ parables. Peter JR Smith’s warm style and modern insights make the lessons easy to understand and apply. A few parts could go deeper, but it’s a thoughtful and well-written read overall.
18 reviews
November 14, 2025
A potent, modern look at Jesus's parables. Smith's 'truth missile' concept is engaging, successfully making ancient stories explosive and relevant for today. The short chapters and 'Not-a-Parables' are highly effective. A fantastic resource for personal study or small groups.
Profile Image for ReadingIsFun.
61 reviews6 followers
November 15, 2025
An engaging read that provides thorough research and insights, offering a Biblically grounded interpretation of Jesus' thirty-three parables and their meaningful applications in our lives. As a practising Christian, I appreciate it.
Profile Image for Eunice Adams.
11 reviews2 followers
November 28, 2025
Truth missiles; The Explosive Parables of Jesus is a great read. This book explains the parables of Jesus in a very understandable way while infusing real life examples. The parable that I liked most was the parable of the Ten virgins .
83 reviews5 followers
November 8, 2025
Easy to read but not watered down. The “Not-a-Parables” made me think in new ways. A few bits leaned a little sermon-y, but overall uplifting and very readable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews

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