When you read in the Greek and English interlinear translation, verse 12 ends the thought by saying, "...so that when they look, they may see, yet not perceive, and when they listen, they may hear, yet not understand; otherwise (meaning that if it were that they DID understand, it would be otherwise, and) they might turn and be forgiven."
If you don't understand this last comment in this context of a contrasting statement to the first parts of the sentence, what Christ said about them turning and being forgiven sounds churlish.
Both of these prior comments, those of Richard's and Devitt's, make this chapter more clear in the context of the rest of Christ's teachings. It is so critical that the heart be right before one tries to instruct someone else, or one could give that other person the wrong impression.
Remember the instance of the sons of one man who tried to cast out devils in the name of Jesus, during the time the apostles were also prostelytizing , without their hearts being truly converted, first? The devil said, "Jesus, I know, but who are you?!!!", or something to that effect. This was the case of those men not having a true conversion. They created somewhat of a sensation, having to run away stripped of all their clothing.
Satan really does go after the preacher, trying to get him to mis-understand truth, or mis-represent it, or neglect to sow the seed of truth. Satan is ever present, and will truly pervert the word of truth. Yes, WATCH!
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If you don't understand this last comment in this context of a contrasting statement to the first parts of the sentence, what Christ said about them turning and being forgiven sounds churlish.
Both of these prior comments, those of Richard's and Devitt's, make this chapter more clear in the context of the rest of Christ's teachings. It is so critical that the heart be right before one tries to instruct someone else, or one could give that other person the wrong impression.
Remember the instance of the sons of one man who tried to cast out devils in the name of Jesus, during the time the apostles were also prostelytizing , without their hearts being truly converted, first? The devil said, "Jesus, I know, but who are you?!!!", or something to that effect. This was the case of those men not having a true conversion. They created somewhat of a sensation, having to run away stripped of all their clothing.
Satan really does go after the preacher, trying to get him to mis-understand truth, or mis-represent it, or neglect to sow the seed of truth. Satan is ever present, and will truly pervert the word of truth. Yes, WATCH!
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