Matthew 13:10, "The disciples came, and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in parables?”" is asking Jesus why he uses parables to teach the crowds. It's a question of pedagogical method, but it hints at deeper issues. Here's a breakdown of what the verse means and implies:
The Disciples' Curiosity: The disciples, who were closer to Jesus and received more direct instruction, were curious about his teaching style when addressing larger groups. They noticed he often used parables, which are stories or allegories that illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson.
Implied Contrast: The question subtly implies a contrast between Jesus' teaching to the disciples and his teaching to the crowds. The disciples were taught directly, while the crowds received teachings veiled in stories. This suggests a distinction in how Jesus intended his message to be received by different groups.
Seeking Understanding: The disciples' question demonstrates their desire to understand Jesus' methods. They weren't simply being critical; they genuinely wanted to know why he chose to teach in this way. They want to get a better understanding of his message and strategy.
Following Verses Provide the Answer: The verses immediately following (Matthew 13:11-17) give Jesus' answer, which is key to understanding the meaning of this verse. In essence, Jesus explains that he uses parables to reveal truths to those who are open to understanding (the disciples) while concealing them from those whose hearts are hardened or unwilling to believe (the general public).
In summary, Matthew 13:10 is the disciples' inquisitive prompt, setting the stage for Jesus to explain the purpose and function of parables in his ministry. It highlights the difference between those who are receptive to spiritual truth and those who are not.
Matthew 13:10, "The disciples came, and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in parables?”" is asking Jesus why he uses parables to teach the crowds. It's a question of pedagogical method, but it hints at deeper issues. Here's a breakdown of what the verse means and implies:
The Disciples' Curiosity: The disciples, who were closer to Jesus and received more direct instruction, were curious about his teaching style when addressing larger groups. They noticed he often used parables, which are stories or allegories that illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson.
Implied Contrast: The question subtly implies a contrast between Jesus' teaching to the disciples and his teaching to the crowds. The disciples were taught directly, while the crowds received teachings veiled in stories. This suggests a distinction in how Jesus intended his message to be received by different groups.
Seeking Understanding: The disciples' question demonstrates their desire to understand Jesus' methods. They weren't simply being critical; they genuinely wanted to know why he chose to teach in this way. They want to get a better understanding of his message and strategy.
Following Verses Provide the Answer: The verses immediately following (Matthew 13:11-17) give Jesus' answer, which is key to understanding the meaning of this verse. In essence, Jesus explains that he uses parables to reveal truths to those who are open to understanding (the disciples) while concealing them from those whose hearts are hardened or unwilling to believe (the general public).
In summary, Matthew 13:10 is the disciples' inquisitive prompt, setting the stage for Jesus to explain the purpose and function of parables in his ministry. It highlights the difference between those who are receptive to spiritual truth and those who are not.