Helping to Understand

Matthew 13:19

When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.

In the parable of the sower, Jesus said that one reason people hear but don't follow is because the wicked one catches them away because of their lack of understanding. Though this is talking about people being saved, I think the principle in this verse can apply to the saved as well. The importance of teaching and preaching truth in an understanding manner cannot be overemphasized. Truth taught or preached that is not presented in an understanding manner does not help those hearing the truth. I want the cause of Christ to go forward, and I believe you do too; therefore, we must be careful to teach and preach in a manner that people can understand what we are trying to give them. Truth presented in a manner that cannot be understood will not do its purpose for which it was intended. Let me share several things you must do if you want people to understand, not only the Gospel as you give it to them, but also the truths of God's Word as you teach it.

First, you must be a hearer of truth. One way we learn truth so that we can give it to others in an understanding way is that we must be a hearer as well. If we don't hear, then we cannot give it to others. I would challenge you to always be a person who continually hears truth. It would be good for you to listen to preaching from those in the past, from those who preached God's Word in a simple and understanding manner that could be understood by all.

Second, never stop learning. The more you learn about a truth, the more you can present it in an understanding manner. Learn everything you can about the truth you want to present because something that you learn will allow you to present it simply so that all can understand.

Third, talk to others about your truth that you are presenting. I have found it very profitable in my life to talk to other wise people about a truth I’m about to present because they may see it in a different manner that I've never thought about, a manner that will help me to be able to present this truth to those whom I love, and whom I want to understand this wonderful truth that will help them.

Fourth, keep your presentation simple. I often tell people that when you teach or preach, you need to bring the truth down to the bottom shelf so that all can reach it. Be careful not to teach and preach to the head, but teach and preach to the heart. When you teach and preach to the head, you are not concerned about them understanding the truth. However, when you teach and preach to the heart, you are trying to help them understand the truth that could change their lives forever.

Fifth, speak through parables. It is wise to use earthly illustrations to teach heavenly truths, and what you will find is the heavenly truth will be presented in a manner that all can understand.

Sixth, pray for God to give you a mind to present truth in an understanding manner. Nobody wants the truth to be presented in an understanding manner more than God does; therefore, ask Him to give you His wisdom to present truth in an understanding manner so those listening can understand the truth so that they can apply it to their lives.