Jesus' invitation to enter his kingdom comes in the form of parables, a characteristic feature of his teaching.[261] Through his parables he invites people to the feast of the kingdom, but he also asks for a radical choice: to gain the kingdom, one must give everything.[262] Words are not enough, deeds are required.[263] The parables are like mirrors for man: will he be hard soil or good earth for the word?[264] What use has he made of the talents he has received?[265] Jesus and the presence of the kingdom in this world are secretly at the heart of the parables. One must enter the kingdom, that is, become a disciple of Christ, in order to "know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven".[266] For those who stay "outside", everything remains enigmatic.[267]