| Christ's parables the sower | by A. Wood | |
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Matthew 13v3-19, 18-23the way sideIn verse 4 we read of the seed falling by the way side and being devoured by birds. Our Lord expounds this in verse 19, saying that the fowls represent the evil one catching away that which has been sown. This would be the person who upon hearing the Gospel just carries on as if the words spoken had gone in, one ear and out the other. The Word of God not having being allowed to rest in their minds.
stony placesIn verses 5 and 6 we read of the seed falling upon stony places where there is no earth for roots to dig down and so when the sun comes up, the plant just withers away. Our Lord expounds this in verses 20 and 21 saying that this represents those who receive the Word with joy but when persecution comes turns back. How often have we seen someone receive God's Word into their heart, but soon they seem to turn back. The evil one attacks new believers instantly trying to unsettle them and stop them setting down roots and starting to grow. New believers need our prayers that they might be able to set their roots down and go on for God.
among thornsIn verse 7 we read of the seed falling among thorns and the plant being choked by them. Our Lord expounds this in verse 22 saying that these are those who allow the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches to come in. How easy it is for any of us, to get caught up by all this world has to offer and/or chasing after money instead of focusing on God's Word. So far it is a bleak picture being painted but there is one more type of gound.
the good groundIn verse 8 we read of the seed falling upon good ground and bringing forth much fruit. Our Lord expounds this inverse 23 saying that these are thse who hear God's Word, take it in and start to bear fruit. This would speak to those who have taken in God's Word and ignored all the outside distractions and focused on going on for God.
What type of ground are you?If you have accepted God as your Saviour then you are certainly not the first type. Have you started to set down roots in God's fertile ground? Both at your local assembly and in your personal life reading God's Word and communing with Him in prayer. Do you allow the cares of this world and/or the desire to have lots of money to creep in and distract you on your pathway? None of us are perfect but if we are struggling in this regard we need to take it to the Lord in prayer, that we might be the good ground. Oh that we were all fertile ground where God's Word might be allowed to set down roots and work in our lifes.All quotes are from the King James version of the Bible unless otherwise specified. | ||