“And He spoke many things to them in parables” Matthew 13:3a
As the “large crowds gathered” we’re told Jesus “got into a boat and sat down”. Today’s Verse explains “how” Jesus spoke; in Parables. The Disciples came to Jesus afterwards and asked, “Why do You speak to them in parables?” Jesus response is astounding! He said “To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been granted”! He then quoted Isaiah, “You will keep on hearing, but will not understand; You will keep on seeing, but will not perceive” and then said “In their case the prophecy of Isaiah is being fulfilled”. What a Mystery! Consider a couple of thoughts:
It is clear that the “Crowds” did not understand Jesus. They are those, in the Parable that followed, on which the Seed fell and “did not understand it”. Jesus further elaborates, “the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart”. God did not give Grace to understand, but instead, let Satan come and rob them of it! Yikes!!!
But to the Disciples He says, “To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven”. They were Chosen by Christ, to not only Hear the Word of God, but receive instruction of what the Parables meant. God Gave Grace!!!
Final Though: Which “Hearer” are you? Are you one of the Multitudes that hears, but does not understand, or, are you one of the Disciples that has been “granted to know”? But don’t forget, as the Parable unfolded, all that mattered “Was Fruit”! Do you have it?