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This episode of Bible Wisdom Today extends our understanding of Jesus ministry to those insider and outside his circle of followers, as he finds a way to speak meaningfully to both groups at the same time by using parables. These short stories from ordinary life tantalize the listener to think deeply to truly discover their meaning, giving Jesus the opportunity to communicate profound truth to those who are willing to ponder his message, while keeping his true identity and purpose secret from those who do not want to invest the effort. The focus of Jesus sermon of parables in Mark 4 is the parable of the farmer, sowing seed on four types of soil. Jesus’ explanation to his followers includes his rationale for speaking in parables, comparing his ministry to that of the prophet Isaiah. The episode concludes with additional stories and sayings of Jesus which add further insight into the growth of God’s kingdom. Jesus encourages his listeners, then and now, to really ponder his words for spiritual growth.

00:00 Opening comments

04:37 The parable of the sower (4:2-20)

20:57 The lamp (4:21-25)

23:32 The measure (4:24-25)

25:18 The parable of self-growing seed (4:26-29)

27:16 The parable of the mustard seed (4:30-44)

29:40 Concluding summary

31:49 Final comments

Study Questions for Mark 4:1-34

1. What are the four types of soil Jesus talked about (vv. 4-8)? How did the seed grow differently in each one?

2. What blocks might there be to someone’s understanding of Jesus’ message (v. 9)?

3. What modern analogy might you use to explain the truth of the parable of the sower to people who have no experience with farming?

4. What is the secret of the kingdom of God and how has it been given (v. 11)?

5. Why did Jesus ask his followers, “Don’t you understand this parable (v. 13)? What was he feeling towards them?

6. What does it mean to have no root (v. 17)?

7. Can you think of people in Jesus’ ministry who responded to His message in ways that illustrate the four different types of soil?

8. How does the ministry of Jesus disclose what is hidden (v. 22)?

9. How will those who consider Jesus’ words carefully receive even more (v. 24)?

10. Why does Jesus compare the kingdom of God to a seed which grows mysteriously (v. 27-28)? What is his main point?

11. In verse 28, the seed first produces the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. What stage of growth would you see in your own life right now?

12. What hope do these parables give you when you feel that your work for Christ, or your church’s ministry is insignificant?

Episodes released every two weeks | Next: April 14, 2025