Knowing The Word in Matthew 13:18-23

The Parable of the Sower Explained [private]

18 “Hear then the parable of the sower: 19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom [a summary of the message of Jesus] and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. 20 As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives [not understood] it with joy, 21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word [against believers in Jesus], immediately he falls away. 22 As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. [Perhaps there is partial understanding but it becomes peripheral as other worldly concerns push the priority of Jesus aside.] 23 As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.” [Jesus helps us understand the variety of responses to the preaching of the gospel. The fault lies not in the message, but in those who receive it.]