Mark 4:34

But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.

But {G1161} without {G5565} a parable {G3850} spake {G2980} he not {G3756} unto them {G846}: and {G1161} when they were alone {G2398}{G2596}, he expounded {G1956} all things {G3956} to his {G846} disciples {G3101}.

He did not say a thing to them without using a parable; when he was alone with his own talmidim he explained everything to them.

He did not tell them anything without using a parable. But privately He explained everything to His own disciples.

and without a parable spake he not unto them: but privately to his own disciples he expounded all things.

Commentary

Mark 4:34 provides a vital insight into Jesus' distinctive teaching methods during His earthly ministry. It clarifies His dual approach to communicating divine truths: speaking in parables to the general public, and providing private, in-depth explanations to His chosen disciples.

Context

This verse concludes a significant section in Mark's Gospel where Jesus delivers several parables to a large crowd gathered by the sea, most notably the Parable of the Sower. Just before this verse, Jesus explains to His disciples *why* He speaks in parables to those outside the inner circle, stating that to them "all these things are done in parables" (Mark 4:11-12). This sets the stage for His private, clarifying instruction to His committed followers, emphasizing a distinction in revelation based on spiritual receptivity and commitment.

Key Themes

  • Jesus' Pedagogical Approach: Jesus employed a sophisticated teaching strategy. For the general public, parables served as engaging, memorable stories that could be understood on a surface level, yet contained deeper, veiled meanings. This invited listeners to ponder and seek further understanding. For His disciples, He provided direct and clear exposition.
  • Progressive Revelation: While the crowds heard parables that often concealed as much as they revealed, Jesus reserved clear, direct explanations for His disciples when they were alone. This highlights the concept of progressive revelation, where deeper spiritual truths are unveiled to those who are committed to following Him and seeking His wisdom.
  • Discipleship and Understanding: The disciples, by virtue of their commitment and proximity to Jesus, were granted privileged access to the "mysteries of the kingdom of God" (Mark 4:11). This emphasizes the critical importance of discipleship for true spiritual comprehension and growth, as it involves a personal relationship with the Teacher.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Greek word for "parable" is parabole (παραβολή), meaning "a placing alongside" or "comparison." It refers to an earthly story or illustration used to convey a heavenly or spiritual truth, often requiring interpretation.
  • The word "expounded" comes from the Greek epilyo (ἐπιλύω), meaning "to loosen," "to solve," or "to explain fully." It implies a thorough, unravelling explanation that clarifies complex or obscure concepts, making them plain and understandable.

Practical Application

Mark 4:34 offers valuable lessons for believers today:

  • Seek Deeper Truth: Just as the disciples diligently sought private explanations from Jesus, we are encouraged to go beyond a superficial reading of God's Word. Diligent study, prayer, and seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit and mature believers are essential for rightly understanding biblical truths.
  • The Value of Mentorship and Teaching: The passage underscores the importance of spiritual mentors, teachers, and pastors who can help explain and apply biblical truths, much like Jesus did for His disciples. Being part of a community that teaches the Word is crucial for spiritual growth.
  • Spiritual Readiness: God often reveals truth according to our readiness, hunger, and willingness to receive it. Those who genuinely desire to know God's will and walk in His ways will find their understanding enlightened and their spiritual insight deepened.
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Cross-References

  • John 16:25 (6 votes)

    These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father.

  • Mark 4:10 (4 votes)

    And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable.

  • Matthew 15:15 (4 votes)

    Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable.

  • Matthew 15:20 (4 votes)

    These are [the things] which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.

  • Luke 24:27 (3 votes)

    And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

  • Matthew 13:36 (3 votes)

    Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.

  • Matthew 13:43 (3 votes)

    Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.