“Now listen to the explanation of the parable about the farmer planting seeds” (Matthew 13:18 NLT).
In Jesus’ parable of the sower, He described four heart conditions that determined their receptivity to the gospel. Jesus explained the meaning of the parable to His disciples. He explained that the “seed” is the message of the Kingdom, the “farmer” is the one who preaches, and the four types of “soil” represent four heart conditions. In addition, the “birds” who ate the seed represent the wicked one, the devil.
The four soils or heart conditions in this parable:
1) THE HARD HEART. Represented by the soil on the footpath, is so hardened to spiritual things that it lacks understanding, so that the seed of God’s Word does not penetrate its calloused condition. The birds, representing the evil one, snatch away the seed before it has any affect.
2) THE SHALLOW HEART. Is represented by the stony soil. This heart receives the Word with joy and shows immediate growth, but does not persevere when troubles come. For it lacks deep roots.
3) THE DIVIDED HEART. Represented by the seed that fell among thorns. It sprouted but was choked by thorns representing the cares of this world. This heart is divided in priority. Instead of clinging to the Word, it is worried and concerned about worldly things. It bears little fruit of the Spirit.
4) THE RECEPTIVE HEART. Is represented by the good soil which hears the word of God and receives it, bearing much fruit. The Word of Christ dwells richly in this heart and it bears the fruit of Christ’s character and obedience.
Which heart condition best represents your heart?
PRAYER: Dear Father, our hearts are receptive to Your Word today, but we have not always been so. There have been times when Your Word fell on our hearts when they were resistant or distracted by worldly care. Forgive us. Help us to always be receptive to Your Word. For we never outgrow hearing and applying the gospel to our lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.