Disciples may not have all the answers, but they have the one who gives them the answers. Mark 4:30-35

With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand. He did not say anything to them without using a parable. But when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything. Mark 4:30-35

How many times have we asked God "why?" and received no answer? Have you ever felt like God is holding out on you and not answering prayers or giving you a reason why? When and where do you search for the answers to the unexplained "why?". This passage gives us a little insight into that dilemma.

The crowd vs The Quiet

Jesus operated in a public arena. He engaged the crowds in ways which perplexed them. He disturbed their comfort zone with strong words at times, and at other times baffled them with questions. Crowds and mobs are prone to uncontrollable rage. There is something about the presence of large people that naturally raises the adrenaline in the room. However, Jesus was not about crowds, he was about people. He used the crowds to create a stir, but the quiet intimate moments to stir peoples hearts to action and understanding. Being a disciple means that we can enjoy the public Jesus and also the private Jesus. As we draw close to Christ, He draws close to us and offers us insight which the mob is incapable of understanding. There are some Christians which enjoy the crowds and the excitement of public gatherings, but there are also others who seek Christ in the quietness of personal bible study and prayer. Being a disciple means you can enjoy both.


Being a disciple is not necessarily being "his" disciple.

The scripture clearly differentiates between disciples and being a disciple of Christ. Jesus spoke differently to his own disciples and left the outsiders trying to figure things out on their own. This is because being a disciple of Christ has its privileges, but not without cost.

Meaning and understanding for us only comes through the lens of suffering and sacrifice. That is where the teachings of Jesus make sense. Some interpret scripture through the lens of fame and prosperity, this is not what Jesus is wanting from us. When we learn to accept Christs teaching about following Him in the light of great difficulties and obstacles, life makes sense. The parable of the mustard seed can be seen as an insignificant life becoming great in the kingdom or just simply a nice story about a tree. Following Christ brings insight and greater commitment.

The peace that comes from explanation.

Perhaps we all want that peace the most. The peace that comes from hearing from Christ, regardless of the explanation. While answers and outcomes may not be the ones we were hoping to hear or to receive, knowing they are the Lords answers brings comfort and eventually, joy. This is because peace comes not from the information gathered buy by the one who gives it.

Are you seeking purpose and meaning from the outcomes of life, or from the one who holds life in His hand? That is something to think about!