But Not to Them
Scripture Reading — Matthew 13:10-17
“The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them.”
Our verse for today is stated in a slightly different way in the gospel of Mark. In Mark 4:11, Jesus states, “The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables.”
Have you ever tried to learn another language? That is not an easy task, but you can become fairly fluent if you put in the effort to learn. It is quite another challenge, though, to learn the subtle nuances and humor of a language. To get to that level, you usually need to immerse yourself in the culture and talk with the local people every day.
Jesus called his disciples, and they followed along with him as their teacher. They were willing to spend time with him and learn from him constantly. In fact, they spent all their time with him, and eventually they learned and began to understand his purposes.
To those who are willing to live fully in his kingdom Jesus gives the secrets of the kingdom. But all who are not willing to turn to Jesus, and to ask and learn why he has come, will stand on the periphery, unable to understand the nuances, the mysteries.
Do you need to press further in? Do you need to spend more time listening to the whispers that Jesus speaks to your heart? He wants us to turn to him and be forgiven, and to have life to the full! This is the only condition for life in his kingdom.
Lord Jesus, I am willing. Help me to press into you and immerse myself in the full life of your kingdom. In your name, Amen.
About the author — Dale Melenberg
Dale Melenberg is a second-career pastor. He received a theology degree through Calvin Theological Seminary and a doctorate of ministry degree at Fuller Theological Seminary. He is married to Gloria, and together they have raised three sons and are enjoying their four grandchildren. Growing up in an immigrant community shaped Dale’s view of family, church, and community in a profound way that continues to inform his life-view toward kingdom living with God, neighbors, and the creation.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!