The disciples approached Him and asked, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” He answered, “Because it is given to you to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. For whoever has, more will be given to him, and he will have an abundance. But whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. Therefore I speak to them in parables, because they look and do not see, listen and do not hear, nor do they understand” (Matt. 13:10-13*).
Christ sometimes speaks of His kingdom in a direct way, the Sermon on the Mount being a prime example. In the Beatitudes and other teachings from this sermon, He explains how to live as subjects of that kingdom: “And when you pray…” (Matt. 6:7*); “And when you fast…” (verse 16*).
At other times, the Lord Jesus reveals His kingdom through parables. These simple stories, which convey important truths through familiar images and scenes, are easy to grasp. “A sower went out to sow” – this is how one parable begins (Matt. 13:3*). The story tells what happens when seeds fall on different types of soil. However, parables have a deeper meaning. Even the disciples need help to understand some of them.
Christ speaks to us even today – through the words of Scripture, through His Holy Spirit, and through the body of Christ. And even when the “mystery” is evident, we might feel that our understanding is lacking. At certain times in life, we might gain clarity on spiritual matters we've struggled with in the past. Or things that once seemed understandable might suddenly become confusingly complex.
A part of our growth is learning to accept God’s timing, even when it comes to His Word. Whether we are in a time of understanding or of confusion, humility is an essential component of approaching God. We can trust that He will reveal to us everything we need to know. There is no need to worry.
Link to the original article: https://www.intouchuk.org/read/daily-devotions/a-hidden-kingdom
*Bible quotes are from Bible, new translation from original languages © Bulgarian Bible Society 2013