Why would Jesus only use parables, which don’t always have
obvious meanings, with the crowd, and then “explain everything” to his
disciples later? The short answer is we
aren’t completely sure and because of that, many theories abound. You are free to google “why did Jesus use
parables?” to read a few or hundred, whichever suits your fancy.
To me, it makes sense for Jesus to use compelling stories with
the crowds and be more direct with hiis leaders-in-training. The crowd is a mixture of people ranging from
curious looky-loo’s to people earnestly seeking the Messiah. Often there were also Jewish religious
leaders present. Parables are less
confrontational to religious leaders, enlightening to those earnestly seeking,
and might tickle the fancy of the curious – one story fulfilling multiple
purposes simultaneously. This might even
be part of the explanation offered to the disciples later; know your audience
and use appropriate teaching methods accordingly.
The parables of Jesus are still doing all of these things –
confounding the scholarly skeptics, engaging seekers, and drawing in the
tire-kickers. Seems like Jesus knew what
He was doing.
Question: What do the
parables of Jesus “do” for you or even in you?
Prayer: Jesus, thank
you for your teaching in all its forms.
Help us grasp the kingdom you usher in and allow as to be part of the “ushering.”
Amen.
Prayer Focus: Pray
for people who may be curious about Jesus, but haven’t gone “all-in” yet.
Song: I Love to Tell
the Story – Accapella
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