In Mark 4:10-12, we find a profound teaching moment between Jesus and His disciples, following the Parable of the Sower. These verses read:

“10 And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable. 11 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: 12 That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.”

These verses reveal a significant aspect of Jesus’ teaching method and His purpose in using parables. When the disciples and those close to Jesus inquire about the meaning of the parable, Jesus explains that the mysteries of the kingdom of God are given to them—to those who are open, seeking, and willing to follow Him. For those individuals, there is a promise of deeper understanding and insight into the spiritual truths Jesus came to reveal.

However, Jesus also explains that the use of parables serves a dual purpose. To those on the outside—those who are not open to or seeking the truth—the parables remain puzzling stories. This distinction is not about exclusion but rather about the condition of the heart and one’s openness to divine truth. The reference to “seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand” echoes the prophecy of Isaiah (Isaiah 6:9-10), which foretold a people who would be witness to God’s works and words but not comprehend them due to their hardened hearts.

Jesus’ words in these verses underscore the importance of a receptive heart to understand the kingdom of God. The parables are more than mere stories; they are vehicles of profound spiritual truth, accessible to those who seek with a humble and open heart. For those willing to listen and pursue the truth, there is the promise of conversion and forgiveness, a transformative process that begins with understanding Jesus’ words and accepting His invitation to enter the kingdom of God.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Matthew 7:7 NIV