By: Howard Johnson

As we study the parables of Jesus, we often assume that when He explained the meaning, it was to the twelve only. At least, that is generally how I understood them. When comparing the different versions of the Parable of the Sower, I noted an interesting point. In Luke 8:4–15, Jesus told of a sower who planted seed. The seed fell on four different types of soil and produced varying results. Then, in verse 10, His disciples asked Him what the parable meant, and Jesus answered, “To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, that Seeing they may not see, ‘And hearing they may not understand’” (NKJV).

Who is to know and to understand, the twelve or all those who follow Jesus? It is indeed all who follow Jesus. Jesus obviously taught in parables for two reasons. One reason was so those with a limited education would be able to relate to his colorful examples. The second reason was so those who didn’t quite understand would ask for further guidance in their understanding, thus showing their sincere desire to follow. This left the religious leaders of that time out of the circle of understanding unless they humbled themselves enough to ask this lowly carpenter’s son to explain the meaning of life.

The point of educating all who asked, and not just the twelve closest to Jesus, is further illustrated in Mark 4:1–20, particularly in verse 10—“…those around Him with the twelve…” Those in the company with the twelve included other followers who wanted to know the truth.

The seed was being planted even as Jesus spoke. His discipleship grew outside the twelve. However, some chose later not to follow for many reasons: to bury the dead (Matthew 8:21) or they would not give up all they had (Luke 18:18–24).

Jesus is still sowing seed today. Truth and righteousness were not reserved for those few that literally walked by Jesus’ side. It is not up to preachers and teachers to interpret the Word for us. It is up to us to let God’s Word dwell in us richly. The Word of God will more likely dwell in those who seek it for themselves than if it is merely given to them. It won’t dwell as long if someone else gives it to either them or us. Besides, no one can believe or obey God’s Word for us. We have to go to the Word (the seed) and get it for ourselves in order for it to be planted properly.

Commit the Word of God to your soul and mind that it may never leave you alone. Plant it, water it and watch it grow, all to the glory of God

Author: Howard Johnson