Why Did Jesus Speak in Parables?

Text: Matthew 13:10-17

Matthew 13:10–17 ESV

10 Then the disciples came and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” 11 And he answered them, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. 12 For to the one who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 13 This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. 14 Indeed, in their case the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled that says: “ ‘ “You will indeed hear but never understand, and you will indeed see but never perceive.” 15 For this people’s heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.’ 16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. 17 For truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.

Introduction

Have you ever listened to someone tell a story and thought, ‘What does this even mean?’ You’re not alone—Jesus' disciples wondered the same thing when He taught through parables.

A parable is a simple story that conveys a spiritual or moral lesson using everyday life scenarios. The word *parable* comes from the Greek word *parabolē*, which means ‘to throw alongside.’ Jesus used parables to place heavenly truths alongside earthly illustrations so listeners could better understand—or, at times, be challenged by—the message of His kingdom.

Parables were more than entertaining stories; they invited people to look beyond the surface for deeper truths. Parables challenged listeners to think, reflect, and respond. Jesus used parables to engage people uniquely—those with open hearts would understand the message, while others would miss the meaning entirely.

Types of Parables and the Kind Jesus Used

Scholars group parables into several categories, including: 1. Similitude: A short comparison that parallels two things (e.g., 'The Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed'). 2. Narrative Parable: A longer story that illustrates a more profound truth (e.g., 'The Good Samaritan' or 'The Prodigal Son'). 3. Parabolic Saying: A brief and punchy statement communicating a principle (e.g., 'Many who are first will be last, and the last first').

Jesus frequently used similitudes and narrative parables to describe the Kingdom of God and how we should live in response to His truth.

His parables often addressed themes of grace, judgment, forgiveness, stewardship, and preparedness.

Jesus didn’t just teach abstract ideas—He used familiar, relatable scenarios like farming, weddings, and family relationships so that His audience could connect with the deeper truths He was conveying.

In Matthew 13, Jesus explains both why He uses parables and how not everyone will understand them.

This sets the tone for our journey through His teachings, where we’ll encounter profound truths wrapped in simple stories.

Transition: So, why did Jesus speak in parables? The first reason the text gives is . . .

Parables Reveal Truth to Believers (vv.10-11)

Matthew 13:10–11 ESV

10 Then the disciples came and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” 11 And he answered them, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.

Exposition:

Jesus is speaking to His disciples, distinguishing between those who truly seek God and those who are content with superficial knowledge.

The word “secrets” (mysteria) refers to hidden truths—truths about the kingdom of God that are only revealed to those who trust and follow Jesus.

This truth isn’t just intellectual knowledge; it’s experiential—you only understand God’s truth as you live by faith and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you.

Parables act like keys: They unlock the deeper truths of the kingdom for those with faith, but to those without faith, they remain enigmatic and confusing.

Think of it this way: A parable is like a treasure chest—it’s wide open, but only those who care to look inside will find its treasures. Jesus used parables to invite believers into this deeper understanding, nudging them toward reflection and spiritual insight. For believers, the stories take on profound meaning. But for those closed off to God, they remain just stories.

Illustration: Imagine someone hiding a valuable gift in plain sight—it’s there all along, but it can only be seen by those who are paying attention. Jesus’ parables are like that gift—they require spiritual eyes and a willing heart to understand.

Application: “Am I listening with an open heart to what God wants to reveal?”

“How often do I engage with Scripture—reading it slowly, reflecting deeply, and praying for understanding?”

As believers, we need to be intentional about seeking God’s truth. The more we dig into His Word and apply it, the more He reveals the mysteries of His kingdom to us.

Parables Conceal Truth from the Unbelieving (vv.12-13)

Matthew 13:12–13 ESV

12 For to the one who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 13 This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand.

Exposition:

Jesus explains that not everyone is ready to receive the truth of the kingdom of God. Some people see but don’t perceive, hear but don’t understand. Their hearts are closed off to what God wants to reveal.

Parables served as a spiritual filter—they separated the curious from the indifferent, revealing the heart condition of those who heard. Those who were humble and open to God’s word were drawn deeper into truth. But those with hard hearts found the parables to be nothing more than strange stories.

Think about it: When someone isn’t ready or willing to listen, even the most profound truths fall on deaf ears. Jesus didn’t force the truth on anyone—it was for those with open minds and ready hearts to receive.

This illustrates a spiritual principle: The condition of the heart determines the reception of God’s truth. Those who reject the message are left in the dark, missing out on the very thing that could save them. Parables concealed truth from those who didn’t want it and revealed it to those who sought it.

Illustration: Think of noise-canceling headphones—sometimes we put them on to block out all noise, including the things we actually need to hear. In the same way, people sometimes block out God's voice—choosing not to hear His truth, even when it’s being spoken clearly.

Application:“Do I ever miss what God is saying because my heart is closed off?”

“What distractions, doubts, or attitudes might be keeping me from hearing God’s voice?”

God’s truth is always available, but we must be willing to listen and ready to respond. If we ignore His Word, we risk missing out on the life He offers.

Transition: And it wasn’t by accident—Jesus' use of parables fulfilled God’s prophetic plan…

Parables Fulfill Prophecy (vv.14-17)

Matthew 13:14–17 ESV

14 Indeed, in their case the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled that says: “ ‘ “You will indeed hear but never understand, and you will indeed see but never perceive.” 15 For this people’s heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.’ 16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. 17 For truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.

Exposition:

Jesus’ use of parables was not a coincidence; it was part of God’s sovereign plan, fulfilling the prophecy spoken by Isaiah (Isaiah 6:9-10).

In Isaiah’s time, God’s people had grown spiritually dull—they saw the signs of God’s presence but refused to acknowledge Him, and they heard His word but did not obey. Jesus’ generation was no different: they witnessed miracles, heard His teachings, but many still rejected His message.

The parables acted as both a revelation and a judgment—revealing truth to those with open hearts while confirming the hardness of those who were spiritually blind. In this way, parables did not just teach, they also fulfilled prophecy by exposing the spiritual state of the people.

Faith is the Key: Those who had faith and hunger for God’s truth were able to understand the mysteries of the kingdom. Jesus was not hiding truth from sincere seekers—He was offering greater insight to those who desired it. But those with hardened hearts would remain confused and miss out on the life-changing power of His message.

Illustration: Imagine a hidden map that only certain people can read. To some, it looks like random lines and symbols, but to those with the right key, the map leads them to treasure. Jesus' parables were a map—those who were willing to listen and reflect found the truth of the kingdom hidden within them.

Application “Do I have a hunger for God’s Word, or do I treat it casually?”

“How can I go beyond just hearing the Word to actively pursuing and applying it?”

Let’s be people who hunger for God’s Word, not just hear it passively. The more we seek His truth with open hearts, the more God reveals His wisdom, purpose, and plan for our lives.

'What stories in your life has God used to teach you deeper truths?' 'What might God be trying to reveal to you today through His Word?'

Conclusion

This introductory message is just the beginning! In the weeks ahead, we will walk through the parables of Jesus to discover the hidden truths of His kingdom. Just like the disciples, we must come with open hearts and listening ears.

Call to Action: Invite the congregation to approach this series with a desire to learn and a commitment to apply what they hear.

Transition: "And church, let me tell you one more thing—when Jesus speaks, you better listen because His words bring life and hope!"

Jesus didn’t just tell parables—He lived the greatest story ever told! And that story was written in blood at Calvary, sealed in His burial, and validated in His resurrection! He died, was buried, but early one Sunday morning, He rose again! And because of that story—our story—we have a reason to listen, learn, and live for Him!

So come ready, church! Get your hearts ready! Because Jesus is about to speak, and when He speaks, mountains move, hearts change, and souls are saved!