Alfred Edersheim
The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah • Appendix IX
Ever hearing never understanding applied to those rejecting Messiah's message in Midrash
Lesson 79Rejection
Ever Hearing, Never Understanding
This lesson explores how Isaiah 6:9-10 connects to Jesus.
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Old Testament
Isaiah 6:9-10
He said, "Go and tell this people: 'Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.' Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes."
New Testament
Matthew 13:14-15
In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: "You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes."
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Quick Check
Part 1 - Multiple Choice
Which Old Testament reference connects to this lesson?
Part 2 - Fill In The Blank
Why This Matters
God warned Isaiah that the people would hear his words but not understand, see his works but not perceive. Jesus cited this prophecy to explain why he spoke in parables—many heard his teaching but refused to grasp its meaning. Spiritual blindness is not merely a failure to understand; it is a calloused heart that chooses not to see what is plainly before it.
Reflection
Lord, where others turned away from You, help me draw nearer. Make my loyalty deeper and my worship truer.