The Kingdom Described: Why Parables?

We now come to the extended teaching part of this section of Matthew (chapters 11-13), as Matthew tells us about the nature of the kingdom.  Jesus, however, doesn't relay this information to us through systematic propositions, but through extended analogies, or parables.  His purpose in this is not to confuse or hide, but to make a distinction between those who have a true spiritual concern and those whose interest is merely superficial.  If we genuinely pursue salvation and truth, we will find that God's word opens to us.  The Spirit illumines the word for us, opening the eyes of our understanding.  Those, however, whose spirituality is a veneer will find that the words of Jesus are hidden, and will not take the time to pursue understanding, resulting in a mind further darkened and a heart further blinded.  All of this reveals God's sovereignty in salvation.