Secrets of the Kingdom

“If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.  Consider carefully what you hear,” he continued. “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and even more.  Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him.”  (Mark 4:23-25)

As disciples of Christ, we should seek to learn, to know, and to understand the “secrets of the kingdom of God.”  This is one aspect of the Christian walk which sets disciples apart from nominal Christians—disciples seek to understand in the spirit.  Those who would hear with ears only and try to understand the things of God in the flesh will see the parables merely as stories.  They see and they hear, but they fail to discern and understand.  The disciple is called to do all four—to discern what they see and understand what they hear.

After explaining the meaning of the parable, Christ emphasizes to His disciples that it is imperative that they take what they hear to heart.  What you use will be measured to you, and you will be fulfilled.  More will be given to those who use what they hear for the glory of God and spread the understanding of the things of God.  If you are faithful with what is given—like the good ground—more will be given, for you will have proven yourself faithful.  But if you do not produce fruit, you will not be given more to use—do not squander what you are given.

—Mark

 

Maxim of the Moment

Marry for money and you’ll starve for love.