In Matthew 13:22-23, Jesus uses a parable to illustrate how different individuals receive the word of God, comparing them to various types of soil. Some people are likened to thorny soil; they hear the word but allow life’s worries and the deceitfulness of riches to choke it out, rendering it unfruitful. In contrast, those represented by good soil hear and understand the word, producing an abundant crop.
Consider these two types of soil: one where doubt and self-sufficiency take root, preventing God’s word from flourishing. While the parable does not specify what makes the good soil fertile, we can infer that it is free from the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth “self-sufficiency.” The thorns symbolize the seeds of doubt planted alongside the word of God. This echoes Satan’s lie in the garden, “Did God really say?” It embodies the belief that we do not need God to provide for us, directly attacking God’s character. Think about the name and nature of God for a moment: “I am.” Is He truly the God of Salvation, the Provider, the One who sees? Does He really provide? Does He save? Does God genuinely care? Are you aware of Satan’s tactics?
We must learn to reject the lies of Satan and the world. In my discussions with youth, I often reference three competing voices in our lives: the voices in our heads, the voices around us, and the Word of God. All these questions from the adversary come from both within and our environment, challenging whether God really said what He did and questioning His intentions. The more time we spend in the Word, the more familiar we become with it, strengthening our faith and trust (Romans 10:17). As our trust grows, when we are faced with doubts like “Did God really say?” or “Did He really intend this?”, we see the character of Jesus begin to form within us. We can respond as He did when tempted in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11).
We cultivate good soil by growing in faith and deepening our understanding of the God we serve. By putting on Christ, we can stand firm, seeking refuge behind the shield of faith, and wielding the sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:10-18).
inspired by David Nasser , a call to die
I’ve been many types of soil in my life. I’ve had my days where not a single seed would take root. I’ve had days where what took root would not be watered. I’ve had days where all the conditions where perfect to bear fruit. Being around those that want to see a great harvest has been encouraging.
Thank you.
This is probably my favorite of all Jesus‘s parables. Or I should say this is the parable that has affected me the most in my life. I think of this parable often, and fear that I am not the good soil. I guess you could say that this parable has been effective in motivating me to live for Jesus.
This also reminds me of the analogy that every man has two wolves living within him, one good and one bad. The wolf that is fed more will ultimately win the fight. It is important that we continue to feed the good wolf and do our best to starve the bad one. We can only do this with help from the Holy Spirit.