ESV Reformation Study Bible – Matt 13:13
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Matt 13:13

13:13 because seeing. Mark 4:12 (cf. Luke 8:10) phrases this statement even more strongly, with “so that” rather than “because.” For Mark Jesus’ purpose in telling parables is to prevent understanding and to cause unbelief (Mark 4:11 note); in Matthew Jesus’ parables are in response to people’s unbelief and inability to understand. Though some argue that Matthew softens the note of divine sovereignty seen in Mark, the word “lest” in v. 15 indicates that God’s sovereign choice lies behind the hardening of their hearts whether it precedes (Matthew) or follows (Mark) an encounter with Jesus’ teaching. While in this passage Matthew highlights the moral responsibility of those who reject Christ, his inclusion of the reference to Is. 6:9, 10 illustrates the compatibility of God’s sovereignty and human responsibility. The parables served as an instrument of judgment by hardening the impenitent.