Luke 8:10
The scripture for today is Luke 8:10
Luke 8:10 And He said, unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.
The disciples came to Jesus wanting to know the meaning of the parable of the sower, which He had just shared with the people. Jesus’ response to them is our text for today. Was the Lord saying to His disciples that it was not His desire for the people to understand the message that was being preached? If that was the case, it would seem unfair to those who were listening since they had no chance to truly understand what was being presented. But that was not the case at all. “The manner in which the Savior communicates instruction is suited to impart knowledge to those who desire it, who seek for it as men seek for silver, and search for it as they do for hidden treasures; while those who despise it, He leaves in ignorance, darkness, degradation, and death.” Family Bible Notes
It is the heart of the hearer that determines whether the good news of the gospel is received as good news. God looks at the heart. While many may come to hear the message, only a few will really “hear” the message. “And he said, go, and tell this people, Hear you indeed, but understand not; and see you indeed, but perceive not.” Isaiah 6:9
Jesus speaks in parables because the multitudes see without seeing and hear without hearing. If their hearts were truly open to hearing the word of God, they would have ears to receive, not just to hear the sound of words. In the Bible, the word "hear" often does not connote hearing sounds but receiving the message that is spoken. All of the people heard the words but because their hearts were not open to receive the message, they really did not “hear” it at all.
We have the same condition among us today. Many hear the words that are spoken as the message is preached, but only a relative few hear with the heart to receive the message that God sends. That is not the exception; that is the rule. Jesus said, "Enter in at the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and many there be who go in there: Because narrow is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leads unto life, and few there be that find it." Matthew 7:13-14
The majority rejects the word just as they rejected Christ. But God will always have a people on earth who love Him and who receive His word in their hearts with gladness. It will be those who, like the disciples, will seek Jesus for understanding, and Jesus will reveal His word and His will to those seeking souls.
God bless you as you continue in His service.
Tim