We come to what feels more like a list rather than a scene. The phrase “And He said…” shows up four times in Mark 4:21-34. These must have been parables and teachings that Jesus used often in various contexts. But why did Jesus use parables so often, as opposed to speaking more directly, plainly, or even clearly? Let’s consider a strong tone of grace conveyed by Jesus’s use of parables. After all, could any of us fully comprehend all of the truth or light embodied in Jesus? No, which is why parables were a gracious way for Jesus to explain his role in ushering in the Kingdom of God. Let’s look at what “He said to them.”
