Matthew 13:1-23
Dear RTB’ers,
Today, the first of many parables in Matthew’s gospel. My Study Bible notes that Jesus spoke approximately 30 parables in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, but none in John’s gospel. An AI response said that there were 23 in Matthew’s gospel alone, including seven in chapter 13, the first of which we are reading today.
“The Sower and the Seed” is one of the most well-known of Jesus’ parables, in part because He offers His disciples an explanation of its meaning. I’ve heard many sermons covering this parable and seen seeds planted for children’s (and adults’!) teaching activities. The one teaching that I best recall had us putting ourselves into the story – yes, a common suggestion for this parable, asking us what sort of “soil” we were. But this particular teaching asked us to examine our lives at various times and to see if we were different soils at these different times in our lives.
That is, many long years ago did I completely ignore God’s word to me (along the path) or did I catch a glimpse of what was being said, but didn’t go very far with it (rocky soil). And no doubt, during my walk with God I have been distracted by the worries, cares, and opportunities I have faced in this world (the thorns). But yet, I know that I am now living on good soil and have seen fruit in the various ministries in which Carol and I have been engaged – not the least of which is this RTB group, now in its 17th year. Still, even now I wonder how often thorns continue to choke my spiritual walk.
So try it yourself, folks. Go back through your life and see what kind(s) of soil you have been when seeds have been scattered your way. And speak out – share with us some of what you learn. We would be blessed!
Blessings!
See also: