Quote:
Originally Posted by epignosis
The simple answer to this is, that God can then give this meaning to the ones he wants. In other words it is hidden to the ones not deserving. Also it can be given at the correct time.
Mark 4:11 (King James Version)
11And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:
Matthew 13:11-13 (King James Version)
11He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
12For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.
13Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.
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That seems rather mean when taken into context. Jesus doesn't even want the people he is preaching to understand his meaning.
That's not the portrait of the loving Christ I have always had in my mind.