Matthew Chapter 13
“Why do You speak to them in parables?”
“Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.”
(Matthew 13:10-11)
This conversation between the disciples and Jesus gives us a greater insight into how we should receive the Word of God. Sometimes, we wonder why the Word, in its usual forms of Bible reading, sermons, and Bible discussions and lessons, does not seem to be inspiring or edifying.
Listening to the Word of God is not for the faint-hearted.
Instead, it is for the poor in spirit (Matthew 5:3) for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. The Word of God is meant for those who will inherit the kingdom of God. Be humble like the disciples and ask for further clarification and the intended edification will be received.
The Word is for those who have some knowledge, from which they will gain more.
“For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.”
(Matthew 13:12)
It is important to keep learning and building on our understanding of the Word of God. A sad situation develops when we neglect daily Bible reading and we realise that all that we have learnt in weeks of spiritual meetings, religious education classes, Bible camps and theological seminars seem to have just disappeared.
The Word of God is for those who see and who want to see.
“But blessed are your eyes for they see, and your ears for they hear; for assuredly, I say to you that many prophets and righteous men desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it. “
(Matthew 13:16-17)
When we realise (again) that God is revealed through the scriptures as Jesus Christ, that the way of salvation and of reconciliation is detailed in the Bible, that joyful living is possible through wisdom and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we will want to see and hear more!
There is no space here for a detailed explanation of the seven parables in Matthew 13 and on how they reveal the development of the church through establishment in the apostolic period, decline through rejecting the Word of God and revival in the Latter rain period.
Are you eager to see and hear more? Read the chapter yourself and discuss with the dear brethren!
