Matthew 13:36

"that it might be fulfilled which was spoken through the prophet, saying, “I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things hidden from the foundation of the world.”"

Key Reflection

Matthew 13:36 alludes to a prophetic declaration that Jesus would speak in parables, revealing mysteries from the very beginning of time. For the first-century Jewish listeners, this would echo ancient prophecies found in Psalms and Deuteronomy, where God’s spokespersons foretold the use of parables to convey divine truths. This context highlights how Jesus was fulfilling a long-standing expectation for prophetic teaching, blending past promises with present fulfillment through his unique method of instruction.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verses 36-43. Declare unto us. That is, explain the meaning of the parable. This was done in so plain a manner as to render comment unnecessary. The Son of man, the Lord Jesus, sows the good seed; that is, preaches the gospel. This he did personally, and does now by his ministers, his providence, and his Spirit, by all the means of conveying truth to the mind. This seed was, by various means, to be carried over all the world. It was to be confined to no particular nation or people. The good seed was the children of the kingdom; that is, of the kingdom of God, or Christians. For these the Saviour toiled and died. They are the fruit of his labours.

More from Matthew 13

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