Mar 4:30-32 | RWP | e4.org | How shall we liken? ( Πως ομοιωσωμεν? ) Deliberative first aorist subjunctive. This question alone in Mark. So with the other question: In what parable shall we set it forth? ( εν τιν αυτην παραβολη θωμεν; ). Deliberative second aorist subjunctive. The graphic question draws the interest of the hearers ( we ) by fine tact. . retains the double question which . does not have, though he has it in a very different context, probably an illustration of Christ's favourite sayings often repeated to different audiences as is true of all teachers and preachers.

‏ Mark 4:30-32

How shall we liken? ( Πως ομοιωσωμεν? ) Deliberative first aorist subjunctive. This question alone in Mark. So with the other question:

In what parable shall we set it forth? ( εν τιν αυτην παραβολη θωμεν; ). Deliberative second aorist subjunctive. The graphic question draws the interest of the hearers (we) by fine tact. Lu 13:18f. retains the double question which Mt 13:31f. does not have, though he has it in a very different context, probably an illustration of Christ's favourite sayings often repeated to different audiences as is true of all teachers and preachers.

When it is sown ( οταν σπαρη ). Second aorist passive subjunctive of σπειρω. Alone in Mark and repeated in verse 32.

Less than all the seeds ( μικροτερον παντων των σπερματων ). Comparative adjective with the ablative case after it. Hyperbole, of course, but clearly meaning that from a very small seed a large plant grows, the gradual pervasive expansive power of the kingdom of God.

Groweth up ( αναβαινε ). Mt 13:32 When it is grown ( οταν αυξηθη ).

Under the shadow thereof ( υπο την σκιαν αυτου ). A different picture from Matthew's

in the branches thereof ( εν τοις κλαδοις αυτου ). But both use κατασκηνοιν, to tent or camp down, make nests in the branches in the shade or hop on the ground under the shade just like a covey of birds. In Mt 8:20 the birds have nests ( κατασκηνωσεις ). The use of the mustard seed for smallness seems to have been proverbial and Jesus employs it elsewhere (Mt 17:20; Lu 17:6).