Parables: Lesson Two
Parables in the Gospel of Mark:
An Internet Bible Study Courtesy of PGUMC
Lesson Two: Mark 4:21-25 A Lamp Under a Basket
Review
Parables can be very elastic an offer a multitude of interpretive possibilities, however it is not accurate or honest to take an anything goes attitude. We should always try to understand the meaning of a parable in the context of the Gospel first. Parables are also very fragile and illusive. If we try too hard to explain or follow analogies too far the parable seems to evaporate or fall to pieces.
Setting the Stage
In this lesson we will be reading what seems to be two sets of sayings. Notice how metaphor and proverb blend together to change meaning and direction.
Encountering the Text
Please take the time to read carefully. Read and reread the passage slowly. Make note of any important or unusual words or situations you encounter. After you have finished spend some time in reflection and prayer and consider the questions that follow.
21He said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under the bushel basket, or under the bed, and not on the lampstand? 22For there is nothing hidden, except to be disclosed; nor is anything secret, except to come to light. 23Let anyone with ears to hear listen!”
24And he said to them, “Pay attention to what you hear; the measure you give will be the measure you get, and still more will be given you. 25For to those who have, more will be given; and from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away.” Mark 4:21-25 (NRSV)
- Encountering the Text through a modern dramatic translation
And he was saying to them:
The lamp does not come in
(does it?)
in order to be placed under a basket
or under the bed.
Does it not rather come in
in order to be placed upon the lampstand?
There is no thing hidden.
except in order to be revealed.
Neither does it happen secretly,
except that it should come into visibility.
Anyone who has ears to hear should hear.
And he was saying to them:
Look what you hear.
In the measure which you measure,
it will be measured out to you.
and it will be added beyond that.
To the one who has,
it will be given,
and whoever does not have,
even what that one has will be taken away.
–Richard W. Swanson, Provoking the Gospel of Mark p. 269-70
Discussion Questions
1. Was the second translation helpful in establishing a sense rhythm and meaning?
2. Does the act of translation necessarily include a certain level of interpretation?
3. Considering what we know of the action in Mark up to this point: What is the
purpose of this collection of sayings?
4. What might the lamp represent in this passage? Does this relate to vs. 16-19?
5. Is this a promise, a threat, or an explanation of vs. 10-11?
6. How do these proverbs fit in with the Messianic Secret of Mark?
7. How does the second set of sayings (24-5) suggest faith is to be cultivated or
increased?
6. What insights or observations do you have?
Please respond and share any questions or suggestions that you might have at this point. I will begin on Lesson Three: Mark 4:26-29 Growing Seed soon!
In Christ,
John