And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?

MATTHEW 13:10KJV
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Matthew 13:10 (KJV)

What does Matthew 13:10 mean?

Matthew 13:10 shows the disciples coming to Jesus and asking why he chooses to speak to the crowds using parables instead of speaking plainly. The verse highlights the disciples’ curiosity about Jesus’ teaching method and their desire to understand his reasons.

In this scene, Jesus has just finished telling a parable to a large crowd. The disciples, who are his close followers, approach him privately to ask about his choice to use stories (parables) rather than direct teaching. This question sets up the explanation Jesus gives in the following verses about the purpose and effect of parables in his ministry.

The Greek behind Matthew 13:10

  • παραβολαῖς (parabolais): This word, transliterated as "parabolais," means "parables"—stories or comparisons used to illustrate a point. The use of this word signals that Jesus is intentionally teaching in a way that invites deeper thought and interpretation, rather than giving straightforward answers.
  • μαθηταί (mathētai): This is the Greek word for "disciples," meaning learners or followers. The fact that the disciples are the ones asking shows their closer relationship with Jesus and their interest in understanding his methods.

Why Matthew 13:10 matters

  • Matthew 13:10 clarifies that Jesus’ use of parables was noticeable and even puzzling to his closest followers, not just the crowds.
  • The verse sets up an important teaching moment where Jesus explains the purpose of parables, which helps readers understand why some teachings in the Gospels are given in story form.
  • This question from the disciples highlights the difference between those who seek deeper understanding (the disciples) and those who may only hear the surface of Jesus’ words.

Where else these words appear

“Why” Greek G1302 · used in 26 verses

  • Matthew 9:11 And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?
  • Mark 11:31 And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, Why then did ye not believe him?
  • John 8:43 Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word.

“parables” Greek G3850 · used in 48 verses

  • Matthew 13:3 And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;
  • Mark 3:23 And he called them unto him, and said unto them in parables, How can Satan cast out Satan?
  • Luke 8:9 And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be?

“came” Greek G4334 · used in 85 verses

  • Matthew 4:3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.
  • Matthew 21:23 And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?
  • Luke 9:12 And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve, and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and get victuals: for we are here in a desert place.