Matthew 13:10

And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?

And {G2532} the disciples {G3101} came {G4334}, and said {G2036} unto him {G846}, Why {G1302} speakest thou {G2980} unto them {G846} in {G1722} parables {G3850}?

Then the talmidim came and asked Yeshua, "Why are you speaking to them in parables?"

Then the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Why do You speak to the people in parables?”

And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?

Commentary

In Matthew 13:10, the disciples approach Jesus with a crucial question following His teaching of the Parable of the Sower. Their query, "Why speakest thou unto them in parables?" reveals their recognition of a distinct teaching method Jesus employed for the crowds versus His more direct instruction to them. This verse sets the stage for Jesus' profound explanation of the purpose and nature of parables, distinguishing between those who are given to understand the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven and those who are not.

Context

This verse immediately follows the telling of the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-9), which Jesus delivered to a large crowd by the sea. The disciples, sensing a difference in Jesus' public teaching style compared to His private instruction, seek clarification. This moment highlights the transition from Jesus' public discourse to a more intimate teaching session with His closest followers, where He often expounded on the deeper meaning of His parables (as seen in Matthew 13:36 regarding the Parable of the Tares).

Key Themes

  • The Disciples' Pursuit of Understanding: The disciples' question demonstrates their eagerness to grasp Jesus' teachings fully. They are not content with merely hearing the parables but seek to understand their deeper spiritual significance, a characteristic that distinguishes them from the general crowd.
  • The Purpose of Parables: This verse introduces the broader discussion (found in Matthew 13:11-17) about why Jesus used parables. They served not only to illustrate spiritual truths but also, paradoxically, to conceal them from those whose hearts were unresponsive, fulfilling prophetic scriptures.
  • Spiritual Discernment: Jesus' answer implies a distinction between those who have "ears to hear" (Matthew 13:9) and those who do not. Parables acted as a sifting mechanism, revealing the spiritual receptivity of the hearers.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "parable" is parabolē (παραβολή), which literally means "a setting alongside" or "a comparison." It refers to a short, illustrative story that draws a parallel between an earthly situation and a heavenly or spiritual truth. In this context, "them" refers to the general multitude who heard Jesus' public teachings but lacked the spiritual insight or desire for deeper understanding that the disciples possessed.

Practical Application

Matthew 13:10 reminds us that spiritual truth is often revealed to those who genuinely seek it. Like the disciples, we are called to move beyond superficial understanding and actively pursue deeper insight into God's Word. It highlights the importance of a receptive heart and a willingness to ask questions and meditate on Scripture. Furthermore, it underscores the principle that God reveals truth according to our spiritual hunger and readiness, often progressively, as we grow in faith and commitment.

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Cross-References

  • Mark 4:33 (6 votes)

    And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear [it].

  • Mark 4:34 (6 votes)

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

  • Mark 4:10 (4 votes)

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