Parables, Part 3: The Sower Explained

Jesus' explanation is found in Matthew 13:18-23.

In 13:19 there is the Empty/Dead Heart. A person who never understands. Jesus is saying that some people hear the message about the kingdom, but like hardened paths, do not let the truth sink in, and before they understand it the devil takes it away. Verdict: Not a true believer, not real faith.

In 13:20-21 there is the Temporary/Shallow Heart. The person who receives the word in a thoughtless way might show immediate signs of life, but they are false, no root, no fruit. External presurres reveal the shallowness of the soil. Verdict: Not a true believer, not real faith. Interested only up to a point.

In 13:22 there is the Unfruitful/Conflicted Heart. This person simply never allows the word to contol him. The word is one of many competing allegiances and not as important to him as others so it is choked out of his life. Verdict: Not a true believer, not real faith. Superficial commitment, no repentance.

In 13:23 there is the Receptive/Reborn Heart. This person hears the Word, understands it, and bears fruit. Bears a crop, produces. Every believer does not have the same fruitfulness, but every believer will be fruitful. Word heard, understood and received—spiritual fruit in human life. Verdict: Genuine, a true believer, real faith. Being reborn is key. Jesus said you must be born again.

What can we glean from this passage?
1. Be careful how you hear the word. This parable Is about hearing the Word. Hearing vs ignoring. Put yourself in a good position to receive it well.

2. Realize the danger of hearing the Word and remaining unchanged. To understand means to put it all together, the Word being united with faith in those who hear. Test yourself to see if you are in the faith. 2 Cor. 13:5.

Do you know and love Jesus?
Is there evidence of God at work in your life? Gal. 5:22-23.
Do you desire to worship God and know Him more? 2 Peter 3:18.
Do you love God's people? John 13:34-35.
Do you stick around through tough times? 1 Peter 1:6-7.
Do you actively avoid idolatry? 1 John 2:15-17.
Do you consistently seek God's will? James 4:15.
Do you desire to know, understand, & obey God's word? 1 Pet. 2:2.
Are you becoming more like Christ? Romans 8:28-30.

3. Let the word affect everything. God wants us to hear and understand the Word so that we produce good works in keeping with saving faith.
Soli Deo Gloria