Parable of the Soils

Apr 20, 2009

by Josh Matlock

Yesterday we focused on Mark 4:1-20 where Jesus gives the parable of the sower, the seed, and the soils. The main point of the passage, in my opinion, is that the word of God is intended to grow and bear great fruit. The seed (the word) has great power. The sower (Jesus) throws that seed out without discrimination. He doesn't limit His scattering to the good soil, but throws it everywhere. Sometimes I will not share the good news with someone because I have the arrogance to think I know what is in their soul. I think that they will never respond. Before God transforms us, aren't we all just dirt? So there are four different soils he talks about here. First, you have the hardened soil along the path. The word doesn't penetrate into his heart. He needs to humble himself before God. Second, you have the rocky soil where only shallow roots grow. This person is weak and falls at when the trials come in life. She needs to surrender completely and grow deeper in the knowledge of the Lord. Third, there is the thorny soil. The thorns choke out the plant and no fruit comes. He needs to renounce the deceitful things of the world and live for God. Finally, there is the good soil where the seed comes in and bears fruit exponentially. God wants to do great things in His church, but we must be humble, surrendered, growing deeper, and living for Him alone. When these conditions are met transformation will take place.