This chapter contains several parables (including the seed/sower), and Jesus calming the stormy sea.
“And when he was alone, those around him with the twelve asked him about the parables. And he said to them, ‘To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables, so that “they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand, lest they should turn and be forgiven.” ‘. With many such 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.” (v10-12, 33-34)
Have you ever found yourself on the outside of an inside story/joke? When people are close to one another and have shared experiences, they can often tell what the other is referencing or even thinking about. Jesus and His disciples are that close, and through the Holy Spirit we can be that close to God. We can get the inside story / jokes because we are in the family of God.
God still speaks to those who are not yet His children, though their understanding will be limited because they’re not ‘on the inside’. Should they humble their hearts and repent, they will be adopted into the family of God, and gain that same Spirit-led inside scoop.
When we share salvation with those around us, we must be mindful of our neighbor’s level of understanding (and our own). Let’s remember to love our neighbors where they’re at, no matter their comprehension of Jesus. We should first listen and learn where someone is at. Then, when we share, let’s use speech that is clear and simple. Think of it as teaching someone a brand new skill they’ve never tried before – learning where they’re at, building up from there, and doing so gently with much patience and grace (working with the Spirit and the fruit He produces within us).
Father God, our Wise and Discerning Lord, You and Your Spirit know us better than we know ourselves and others. Please guide us to know You and Your word deeper. Please also give us listening ears and the right words to speak when we share Your good news with our neighbors. May we walk according to Your wisdom and leading, and lean not on our own meager understanding, from this day forward, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training