Understanding

 DEVOTION

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MATTHEW

UNDERSTANDING

Matt 13:51-52

51 "Have you understood all these things?" Jesus asked. "Yes," they replied.

52 He said to them, "Therefore every teacher of the law who has been instructed about the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old."

NIV

There is some value in having an education, and even one that is centered on the Bible. We have over the past one hundred years or so established various denominational institutions of higher learning. In fact, many denominations require those who desire to enter the minister to have a degree from their seminary or bible college or a certain level of study approved by them. We could say the disciples attended three years of study under the greatest teacher of them all, Jesus. But even then, their studies were not complete as soon after Jesus left, He sent the Holy Spirit to continue their course study. However, at this point, Jesus asked his disciples if they understood all those parables he told. Having responded yes, he then went on to tell them, which also applies to us, that we should be ready to bring out the truth of the gospel based on all that we have stored up in our spirit. We should not cast any negative aspersions toward all those institutions of higher learning, for they are of some value, however, to understand all these things, does not come from classroom study, but rather from the leading of the Spirit. Knowledge is certainly a benefit from various course studies but understanding cannot be taught in the classroom. The point Jesus was making is that as we gain the understanding, through the leading of the Spirit, we are to bring that understanding into the hearts and minds of others. Certainly, this would apply directly to those who serve as pastors, as it is their responsibility to bring the truth forward to their congregations. We are told that we should not take that responsibility lightly, as those in ministry are held to a higher standard. However, this also applies to all who teach, which should be all of us, for we all have been called to share the good news of the gospel to all in the hope some will have an ear to hear. It is interesting that Jesus talked about new treasures as well as old ones. Over the years we have gained certain insights into the truth. Some we may well have gained through course study, some we have gained through the inspiration of the Spirit. But we cannot be content with just those old treasures, but should always be about gaining new understanding, so we may share those as well, keeping growing in both our knowledge and understanding, always willing to learn more through the power of God. Stagnation is simply another form of withering, of our leaf not remaining green, or our roots stopping from drawing nourishment from the stream of living water. If we are not growing then we are withering or in some sense, dying on the vine. Let us continue to listen to the voice of the Spirit and bring forth of which as we continue to gain understanding.