Robert Gwin
Well-Known Member
yes, Christ, God, is the Master. that much is clear.
but there is not a simple answer to the meaning of the parable; we should not expect there to be: it is the words and teaching of the infinite God. it is given in the way it is given because it is the perfect way: to add more to those who have, and to take away from those who do not have ((Matthew 13:13)). any brief interpretation is a shallow and superficial one; not that any such abridged understanding is untrue, but necessarily incomplete.
even the parable of the Sower, which Jesus gives us a key to interpreting, raises 1,000 more questions by hearing its interpretation -- questions which lead us all over the scripture looking for answers, each of which raise a thousand more. the study of scripture is never complete; of course it isn't - it's understanding of the infinite, immeasurable godhood. as He is without limit, so also is knowledge of Him.
these things are written for the same overarching purpose that is the spirit of all prophesy: testimony of Christ ((Revelation 19:10)). in order that we who believe may have life, and have it more abundantly ((John 10:10)) - because life is to know Him ((John 17:3)).
He is the Master ((John 13:13)) and He is also the gift ((John 3:16, John 4:10)); He is the one who gives the increase ((1 Corinthians 3:6-7)).
the evil one, in covetousness ((Joshua 7:21, 1 Peter 5:8, Isaiah 14:12-14)) seeks to steal, kill and destroy ((John 10:10, Job 1:10-11, John 8:44-47)) -- everything he says about the Master is a lie, and everything he does is evil, with wicked intent.
I see Post, when you disagreed with my interpretation of the parable, I gathered that you had a different understanding of it. I do understand your comment about not understanding it, on reason Jesus instructed us in illustrations was that we as his disciples would get the meaning. In fact, many times he spoke in illustrations even his disciples failed to grasp the meaning, so he had to interpret his words to them.
I believe that our take on it is correct, in line with our assignment we are to do our best at making disciples.