Why the Parables? (2) (Mark 4:21-34)

The parables are stories that can be difficult to grasp.  You can discern their challenge when you read commentaries and how people analyze all the different parts of the parables with differing opinions.  What can we take from the parables that is truly edify?  What is the clear message of the parables as we consider their message? How do the parables serve to cut us to the heart when we wrestle with the implications of the gospel?

Christ’s Family (Mark 3:7-35)

We can understand why people who were genetically tied to Abraham may be tempted to think that they had a better place or a guarantee of Yahweh’s love.  They have a genetic tie to the Lord giving them special privilege or so we think.  What about the immediate family of Christ?  They are those who witnessed the birth and maturing of Christ.  They really have a right to determine His treatment.  So, why is their intervention for Christ so wrong and so encouraging at the same time?