Lessons from Matthew 13: Purpose of the Parables

The Purpose of the Parables

In Matthew 13:10-23 it appears that Jesus teaching in parables perplexed the disciples. They came to Him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in this way?”

And Jesus told them that the knowledge of these teachings – parables – were now secrets of the kingdom of heaven. This knowledge was reserved for those who, like the disciples, would come to God through Jesus Christ. They would seek the secrets or truths of His Word and then obey them.

Jesus did not teach in parables to confuse or condemn the people. Rather, He sought to ignite their interest and spark their curiosity.

Only a true seeker digs deep and searches continuously. These parables shed light in the hearts of those who truly seek to know God and the truth of His Word. Therefore to these He gives more of Himself and more of His Word.

God’s sacred secrets are reserved for true seekers who submit themselves to God and follow His commands. They are not for those who refuse Him or reject His truths. They are not for those who try and use God’s Word for their own advantage. Whatever light or truth they have will be removed because they fail to believe or live by those truths they receive.

Jesus went on to say those who hold dear these truths and seek more of them, those who draw near to Him, He would draw near to them. And they would be given more. More of His truth, more of His presence, and more of His peace and joy and love.

This is the abundance Jesus was speaking about.

But those who rejected these truths would suffer the loss of what little knowledge they had. It too would be taken away from them. They, because of their rejection of Jesus and the truth of God’s holy Word, would lose whatever light/truth they had received. They would become deceived and disillusioned by Satan and the truth they had already been given would be removed!

Let this lead us to see the truth that continued rejection of God’s Word results in removal of opportunity to receive it.

Terri Hamman

Faith & Fitness Coach