With the Measure You Use,
It Will Be Measured to You
In the Gospels Jesus applies the above principle of the reation to more than one issue - certainly to more than evangelism. One of those unique, but very important applications is found in the following scripture:
Mark 4:21-25
[as translated by Wayne M. Anson]
vs. 21 Then Jesus said: “Here’s a question – when you come in with a lamp, do you put it under a one peck measure or under a bed? Most certainly not. Rather – don’t you put it a lamp stand?” vs. 22 Even so – is not what is hidden meant to be made visible? Even more so what is concealed from the understanding will become plainly known. vs. 23 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.”
vs. 24 In addition he said unto them: “Carefully contemplate what you have heard. With the measure you use, it will be measured to you. vs. 25 For the one who has will be given more; and the one who does not have, even what he has will be taken from him.”In context, this passage applies to understanding parables. Jesus has just answered why he speaks in parables, then explained to the disciples the meaning of the Parable of the Sower (which is not about "what you sow is what your reap"), and has turned the conversation back to the issue of understanding parables. He already told them that understanding parables is an ability granted by God to those who believe. Now he is speaking, in this passage, of what is to be done with that understanding.
First, in verses 21-23, Jesus teaches that understanding this hidden knowledge is not meant to be privied away - hidden again - verses 21-23. In verse 24 he says that we should carefully consider and contemplate what has been unveiled. Examine it like you would a diamond turning it to inspect each facet as well as the view revealed by that facet. Finally, at that point, Jesus applies the saying, "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
If you contemplate and examine what you have received, he will reveal more to you. The amount of effort and time you spend enjoying, contemplating, what you know will be the measure God uses to grant you more insight in return. Do very little and you will receive very little more. Spend a lot on what you have and he will give you more and more.
Of course if you have never received any understanding, you will never get more at all. Even what little human based understaning you have will also be taken away from you.
SO - if you want to grow in grace and knowledge, invest a lot of yourself and your efforts into examining the grace and knowledge you have already received. If you do, you will be granted more insight than you ever thought could be there.
______________________________
No comments:
Post a Comment