What is the meaning of Matthew 13:12? Whoever has Jesus sets the scene by speaking to listeners whose hearts are already open to Him. “The knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you” (Matthew 13:11). - “Has” points to a present possession: faith, receptivity, a willing heart (Hebrews 11:6; James 1:21). - Those who “have” are the disciples who lean in to understand, as illustrated in Mark 4:10–12 and Luke 8:9–10. - Their posture fulfills Proverbs 1:5: “Let the wise listen and gain instruction.” will be given more God rewards openness with greater light. “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and even more” (Mark 4:24). - Spiritual truth is not static; it grows in those who cherish it (2 Peter 1:5–8). - The principle also governs stewardship in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:21). - John 15:2 shows the same pattern in fruit-bearing: a fruitful branch “He prunes to make it even more fruitful.” and he will have an abundance Abundance here is real and literal: a life overflowing with understanding, joy, and fruitful service (John 10:10). - Paul describes believers “bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:10). - Psalm 23:5 portrays the overflowing cup that comes from fellowship with the Shepherd. - This abundance culminates eternally, as 1 Corinthians 2:9 reminds us that God has prepared unimaginable things for those who love Him. Whoever does not have Now Jesus addresses hearers who resist truth. Their ears hear the words, yet their hearts stay hard (Matthew 13:15). - Such people resemble Pharaoh, whose stubbornness escalated judgment (Exodus 8–14). - Romans 1:21 describes them: “Although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks.” - Hebrews 3:12 warns against “an evil, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.” even what he has will be taken away from him Neglected light brings loss. “If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers” (John 15:6). - In the parable of the talents, the unprofitable servant forfeits even his single talent (Matthew 25:28–29). - Luke 19:26 repeats the principle: unused opportunity is removed. - Romans 1:28 shows how God gives over those who reject truth, resulting in deeper darkness. summary Matthew 13:12 states a kingdom law: spiritual assets grow in hearts that prize them and disappear from hearts that refuse them. Those who receive Jesus’ words in faith are granted ever-increasing insight and blessing, while those who dismiss Him find their limited grasp slipping away. The verse calls believers to keep listening, keep obeying, and keep treasuring every revelation God gives, confident that He literally rewards faithfulness with abundance. |
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