Mark 4:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 4:11
11 And 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:
Chapter Context
Mark 4 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, love, creation. Written during the mid first century CE (c. 65-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Composed during or just after Nero's persecution when eyewitnesses were disappearing.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-41: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Mark and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Mark 4:11
11 And 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:
Analysis
He said unto them Unto you it is given to know mystery of kingdom of God but unto them that are without all things are done in parables. He said legei Jesus explains parable purpose. Unto you humin disciples chosen ones. It is given dedotai divine passive God gives. Know gnōnai understand perceive. Mystery mystērion hidden truth now revealed. Kingdom of God basileia tou theou God sovereign rule. But de contrast. Them that are without tois exō those outside disciple circle. All things panta hapanta all teaching. Are done ginetai occurs happens. In parables en parabolais comparison figures riddles. Insiders receive explanation outsiders remain in darkness. Grace discriminates enlightens chosen ones. God reveals truth selectively not universally. Parables simultaneously reveal and conceal. Reformed theology sees this as election God chooses to reveal truth to some while hardening others. Divine sovereignty in salvation.
Historical Context
Mystery in Scripture refers to truth previously hidden now revealed (Ephesians 3:3-9 Colossians 1:26-27). Kingdom mystery is that God rule comes through suffering Messiah not conquering warrior. Parables were common rabbinical teaching method. Jesus use unique parables both reveal to disciples and conceal from crowds. Fulfilled Isaiah 6:9-10 hear but not understand. Judicial hardening as consequence of prior rejection. Those who reject light receive darkness. Early church understood dual purpose of parables. Gospel proclaimed to all but only elect respond with faith. Calvin emphasized reprobation as parallel to election. God passes over some in His mercy toward elect. Arminians struggle with these verses emphasizing human free will.
Reflection
- How does Jesus explanation that parables simultaneously reveal and conceal demonstrate divine sovereignty in who understands gospel?
- What does giving mystery to disciples but not outsiders teach about election and God discriminating grace?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Luke 8:10
- References God: 2 Corinthians 4:6, 1 John 5:20
- Parallel theme: Matthew 11:25, 13:16, 16:17, Ephesians 1:9, Colossians 4:5, 1 Thessalonians 4:12