Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Mark 4:10

"And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parables." — Mark 4:10 (ASV)

The question about parables was directed toward their general purpose in Jesus’ teaching. He had spoken other parables, and the disciples and other followers of Jesus were inquiring into their purpose. Jesus’ teaching is not narrowly limited to the Twelve. He came to reveal the truth to all who were open to receive it.