The Parable of the Sower

This morning we continue in our study through the gospel according to Matthew as we consider Matthew 13:1-23. Jesus tells a parable about a sower who sows seeds on a path, rocky ground, among the thorns, and on good soil. Jesus instructs his disciples, "To you it has been to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given" (Matthew 13:11). The secrets of the kingdom are given, not earned. Jesus then explains the parable describing four different soils of response. Jesus teaches us that where the seed of the gospel has not grown or bore fruit, the fault doesn't lie with the seed. The lack of response is due to the condition of the heart. As we explore how to bring this parable home to our hearts, we consider the seed and the grace that cultivates our hearts. Would God give us grace to have receptive hearts who respond in faith and obedience to the seed, the Word. Would it produce a crop that is abundantly more than we could ask or imagine according to the power at work within us.