The Parable of the Sower

Jesus often compared the kingdom of God to a seed planted in the hearts of men and women. Each of us has the seed of the kingdom within us, but it will grow only if we give it the proper "care and feeding." Jesus tells of this aspect of the kingdom in His Parable of the Sower: This is one of the Parables that Jesus explained privately for His disciples, and here is His explanation:

There are many ways of responding to God's word. Some may hear it but reject it. Some may accept it but not act on it. The lesson of this parable is that we must hear, accept and act on God's word.

Just as the farmer scatters seed throughout the field, God gives His word to the entire world. Just as the seed cannot take root on the trampled and hardened path, God's word is rejected by people having hearts hardened by pride and hatred.

Just as the seed that falls on shallow soil wilts in the sun, some people have shallow faith. They are enthusiastic about God's word until it becomes inconvenient or makes demands on them. Then they fall away.

Just as the seed that falls among thorns is crowded out, God's word can be crowded out by worries and pursuit of wealth.

Just as the seed that falls on good soil yields a bountiful crop, God's word is fruitful in people who listen, understand and obey. The kingdom of God yields great results in and through these people.

Related Verses

 * Matthew 5:16, 6:25, 10:22
 * 2 Corinthians 4:8-10
 * James 2:14-17
 * John 3:36
 * 1 Peter 4:17
 * 2 Thessalonians 3:13
 * 1 Timothy 6:10
 * James 1:22-25
 * 1 John 2:9