ISB ~ Matthew 13 v11

to you:Jesus speaks parables to the “great crowds” kilkJ (13:2) but explains them only to his disciples. While the illustrations are clear enough—drawn from everyday life—the underlying truths remain obscure to the faithless (13:9, 13).

secrets of the kingdom:The inner circle of disciples accept Jesus with faith and are privileged to know God’s mysteries (13:36-43).

• Jesus’ private instruction of his disciples reflects his intention to arrange the Church hierarchically. He invests his authority in the apostles (and their successors) to administer the sacraments (28:19; Jn 20:23; 1 Cor 11:25) and transmit God’s truth through their teaching (28:20; Jn 17:17-20; 1 Cor 4:1; CCC 888-90).