In Mark 4:33–34 Jesus revealed his main teaching strategy of using parables and personalized, private instruction. Parables were delivered for everyone’s benefit; one’s memory has always been boosted by storytelling versus the sharing of simple facts. Personalized, private instruction, however, was reserved for those being developed to carry on the mission. Investing time and energy into apathetic followers who cared more about profiting from the mission than expanding it would have been bad stewardship. In these public lessons, one level of truth was revealed that in time might propel the people to seek more. The deeper meaning was disclosed only to those committed to understanding and promoting truth. Jesus explained everything to these future leaders who would unveil the fullness of his kingdom when he was gone. He served everyone around him by imparting truth via parables while prioritizing full disclosure with only a few.

Lead, love, and serve, like Jesus!

KEY QUESTIONS: Do I try to get in another person’s shoes before attempting to explain a difficult concept? Do I share stories or metaphors my audience will understand? Do I waste my time giving too many details to those who do not care? Does my message captivate those I lead making them wish for more?