Mat 13:10-17 | Family | STEP | Why speakest thou--in parables? the question shows that this was the first time he had addressed the multitudes in this manner. Compare with this chapter the sermon on the mount, in which there are only similitudes intermingled with plain address.

Matthew 13:10-17

Why speakest thou--in parables? the question shows that this was the first time he had addressed the multitudes in this manner. Compare with this chapter the sermon on the mount, in which there are only similitudes intermingled with plain address. You; his disciples, who loved him and desired to understand his teaching.

The mysteries of the kingdom of heaven; the deep truths respecting the dispensation of the gospel, which had not before been revealed, or were revealed only in part, and which Christ opened plainly to his disciples.

To them; to the multitudes without the circle of his disciples.

Is not given; to know these mysteries. The hinderance to their receiving this knowledge is stated in verse Mt 13:13. Hath; hath some knowledge of these mysteries.

Shall be given; more knowledge. It is a practical knowledge of which the Saviour speaks, implying love towards him, and a desire to understand the truths which he taught.

Hath not; hath not knowledge, because he hath neither love towards me nor desire to know my truth.

Even that he hath; his present opportunities and privileges for knowing the truth. The Saviour here lays down a general principle of deep and solemn import, which all who hope to be saved would do well to ponder in their hearts. The way to have more light and grace is to make a diligent improvement of what is now granted to us. Seeing, see not; have faculties and opportunities, but do not rightly use them; of course do not understand the truths which they do not desire to know. The ignorance, dulness, and prejudices which come from such a wrong state of heart, made it proper that the Saviour should veil his instructions in parables, which the careless and indifferent would neglect, but the earnest and humble would search into and understand. In them is fulfilled; the language of Isaiah is a description of their case. Isa 6:9,10.

Not perceive; not perceive the spiritual meaning of his words, because, as expressed in the next verse, they shut their eyes against the light. They were not converted, and not saved, as they might have been, had they loved the truth and desired to know it. They see--they hear; with good effect. They loved the truth and desired to know it, and to them a knowledge of it was communicated. Things which ye see--hear; things done by the Messiah, and truths taught by him.