What Jesus Did! 'He Explained to His Own' — Mark 4:34

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

In fact, in [Jesus'] public ministry he never taught without using parables; but afterward, when he was alone with his disciples, he explained everything to them.
— Mark 4:34 NLT

Key Thought

While the parables were mysteries to some, Jesus made sure his closest followers knew what he meant when he spoke them. We, too, can ask for Jesus to make his truth clear to us. He has promised that the Holy Spirit would use Jesus' words, along with the teachings of the Scriptures, and make the necessary impact on our hearts. So when you open the Bible, don't just read; offer yourself to the Lord. Ask that his Spirit helps you understand what you need to know, convict you of where you have fallen short, understand how you should feel, and equip you to live the kind of life that shows the character of Jesus to others.

Today's Prayer

Holy God, as I open your Word, as I seek to know Jesus, have the Holy Spirit penetrate my heart with your truth, open my eyes to my sins, and equip me to live the life of service that glorifies my Savior. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Ephesians 6:17-18
  • 2 Timothy 3:14-17
  • Hebrews 4:12

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Illustration

Illustration of Mark 4:34 NLT — In fact, in [Jesus'] public ministry he never taught without using parables; but afterward, when he was alone with his disciples, he explained everything to them.

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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