Living Room Study

Mark 4

“But when He was alone, those who were around Him with the twelve asked Him about the parables.  He answered them, ‘The mystery of the kingdom of God has been granted to you, but to those outside, everything comes in parables, so that: They may look and look, yet not perceive; they may listen and listen, yet not understand; otherwise, they might turn back and be forgiven.’”  Mark 4:10-12

At a glance, it seems that Jesus desires for some men to know the truth, and for others to not.  We know this is not the case, because if it were, His motive would be inconsistent with scripture.  For example:

“This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, Who desires all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.”  1 Timothy 2:3-4

“The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance.”  2 Peter 3:9

So what is the deal with Jesus’ statement about insiders and outsiders? 

First off, let’s examine who was with Jesus.  Some Bible translations lead you to believe that it was just Jesus and the twelve disciples.  The more accurate translations indicate that the twelve were there, but there were also others.

You may have heard me say that Jesus was concerned about the testimony of His miracles.  He wanted things to stay on the eye-witness level, and not become a mob witness.  Whenever a demon revealed Jesus’ identity, He would silence it.  Except for the cases of Gentile healing/demon expulsion, and His sending-out of the disciples, Jesus told the Jews who experienced His miracles to not spread the news of Him.  He wanted them to show themselves to the priests, offer what Moses prescribed, and let that be theor testimonies.

Basically, Jesus wanted the Spirit to reveal that He was Messiah…not demons, a mob, or human intellect.  The only way the Spirit reveals the truth, is when people are humbly seeking the truth.  Otherwise, the bible (and biblical preaching) are just words.

“And Jesus said to him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah!  No human revealed this to you, but My Father in heaven.’”  Matthew 16:17

Salvation comes exclusively through Jesus, but saving knowledge is available to all who will humble themselves and faithfully believe.  

Blessings.

Steve Wiggins