The Seed & the Sower

"Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower. When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended. He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty." Matthew 13:18-23

Let's take a good look at each type of soil and the roots it produces.

*The way side: Are those who are totaly unresponsive to the Gospel of Jesus. They don't care to hear so the let it go in one ear and out the other. Or they hear, but don't believe. Quickly disregarding the message.

*Stony ground:  is a shallow hearted person or one who acts on impulse, is one who hears the Word, accepts it quickly and emotionally receives with joy. Since the seed fell on ground where no roots can form, the seed is quickly taken away by the enemy. Their so excited to follow Jesus, but haven't counted the cost. They believe for a time, but as soon as opposition and persecution come they let go as quickly as they received.

*Among the thorns: This individual accepts the message in part. They like what they hear, but aren't willing to let go of the cares of the world. They are overtaken by their own desires and lust. They receive the truth, but are quickly overtaken by the world and it's ways. (Worldliness and materialism) Not willing to part with the past, they cling to what they know over the unseen, inevitably their roots are choked out by the thorns. Attempting to serve two masters the challenge becomes too difficult and the half hearted commitment it quickly dies.

Good Ground: This is the believer who hears, understands and accepts, fully counting the cost and willingly lets go of the former life with honest eager anticipation of following Christ. The soil allows the roots to grow deep, which in turn allows them to bear fruit. Fruit is evidence of a true conversion. They are hungry for the Word of God! This person allows the Holy Spirit to come in and begin to mold them into the image of Christ. They take the message to heart and apply it, they live by faith. Each obstacle, challenge and opposition met is an opportunity for they faith to grow. They are drawn to service by the Lord's calling and humbly accept the responsibility os sharing the gospel message with all people at any cost.

How can we be sure the seed of "LOVE" was planted on good ground in our hearts?

Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Matt 7:20-23

GOOD FRUIT = GOOD GROUND!!! Point to ponder... what kind of fruit do you produce? Can others see Jesus in you, your attitude, actions, speech, dress etc. OR do you blend in with everyone else in the world? If you are His, He WILL be evident in your life. Going to church won't save you, praying a prayer one time won't save you, depending on others belief in Jesus won't save you... only trusting Him with your life in every aspect... If you have made that commitment to Him, be sure to trust Him, talk with Him, read His Word, be around those who love Him as much as you do!