Show Don't Tell: Mark 8:14-21

Instead of saying "Jesus warned about the yeast of the Pharisees," hear the frustration build. The disciples have forgotten to bring bread—only one loaf in the boat. Jesus warns: "Be careful. Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod." They discuss this with one another: "It is because we have no bread." They think he's upset about the forgotten groceries. Jesus, aware of their discussion, unleashes questions: "Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear?" The same language used for outsiders—now applied to disciples. "When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?" "Twelve." "And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls did you pick up?" "Seven." "Do you still not understand?" Two feedings, twelve and seven baskets, and they worry about bread? The yeast isn't literal. Their hearts are dull.