Insistence on Parables. Mark 4:33-34.
With such many parables, he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it. He did not speak to them without a parable, but privately to his own disciples, he explained everything.
Dear Royal Priesthood,
Mark again emphasizes the place of parables in the teaching of Jesus.
Parabolically ( v. 33). Jesus taught the crowds in parables. Apparently, there was limited understanding of the parables among some in the crowd. The majority probably just enjoyed the intriguing stories without seeking to understand the meaning.
Perpetually (v. 34a). That Jesus did not speak to the crowds without a parable does not mean that literally, he spoke only in parables, but rather, that he used parables a lot. It also implies that the truth of his teaching was deliberately veiled, so that it could be understood fully only with the help of an interpreter. God’s truth is not like that in an encyclopedia, to be referred to whenever we choose to or feel like it. The absence of a commitment to observe what is taught may well lead to the truth being veiled, so that we cannot grasp its meaning.
Privately (v. 34b). But Jesus had a team of disciples who were eager to learn and obey. To them “he explained everything.” Jesus had a mission that required that those who carry it out fully understand its nature and message. He explained everything to them. Likewise, the Holy Spirit reveals all things to us who believe and are on his mission (John 14:26). We need not worry. As long as we are willing, God’s will for us will be made clear. But if we are only curious but with no desire to obey, uncertainty will be our lot.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.