What Old Testament teachings align with seeking wisdom as seen in Matthew 13:36? The Disciples’ Example of Humble Inquiry “Then Jesus dismissed the crowds and went into the house. His disciples came to Him and said, ‘Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field.’ ” (Matthew 13:36) Old Testament Calls to Seek Wisdom • Proverbs 2:2-6 – “If you truly call out to insight … then you will discern the fear of the LORD… For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” • Proverbs 4:7 – “Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding.” • Psalm 119:18 – “Open my eyes that I may see wondrous things from Your law.” • Jeremiah 33:3 – “Call to Me and I will answer and show you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” • Isaiah 55:3 – “Incline your ear and come to Me; listen, so that your soul may live.” • Deuteronomy 29:29 – “The hidden things belong to the LORD our God, but the revealed things belong to us and our children forever, so that we may do all the words of this law.” Shared Themes with Matthew 13:36 • A personal approach to the Teacher (disciples approach Jesus; OT believers approach God). • Active asking—“Explain,” “Call,” “Incline your ear.” • Confidence that God Himself discloses truth (“from His mouth come knowledge,” “I will answer,” “reveal things”). • Purpose: obedience and life (“so that we may do,” “that your soul may live”). Old Testament Portraits of Wisdom-Seekers • Moses – turns aside to the burning bush and asks, “What is His Name?” (Exodus 3). • Samuel – “Speak, for Your servant is listening.” (1 Samuel 3:10). • Daniel – seeks mercies “concerning this mystery” and receives revelation (Daniel 2:17-23). • Asaph – enters the sanctuary to understand the riddle of the wicked (Psalm 73:16-17). Practical Alignment • Approach God’s Word expecting clarity, not confusion. • Ask specific questions; Scripture invites it. • Wait for God’s timing; revelation often follows persistent seeking. • Measure understanding by obedience—true wisdom translates to action (Deuteronomy 29:29). Conclusion: One Continuous Call From Proverbs’ exhortations to the disciples’ request in Matthew 13:36, Scripture consistently commends humble, persistent pursuit of God-given wisdom. The same Lord who opened parables in private still opens His Word to those who ask today. |
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