Matthew 13:18-23 gives the explanation for the parable of the sower that Jesus shares at the beginning of the chapter (v. 1-9). After sharing the parable, the disciples ask Jesus why He chooses to speak to them in parables (v. 10-17). Jesus’ answer about listening, hearing, seeing, and understanding is fascinating as I dig deeper into the concept of listening this year.
However, I want to focus on Jesus’ explanation of the parable today. It is the inspiration for the retreat theme here in Marble Falls, Texas, this weekend: Overcomers.
18 “Hear then the parable of the sower: 19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. 20 As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, 21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. 22 As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. 23 As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”
The seed that fell along the path was overcome by doubt. The rocky ground illustrates the seed overcome by trials. And the seed that fell among the thorns is overcome by temptation. But the seed sown on good soil is the overcomer; it has not been overcome by fear or any other obstacles.
“For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved” (1 Pet. 2:19b).
What made the difference between the soils and the seeds’ reactions? Our theme verse for the weekend makes it clear: Faith.
“4 For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith” (1 John 5:4).
Please join us in prayer this weekend as we strengthen our faith to overcome doubt, trials, temptations, and fear.
IRSM is helping Ret’s Retreat go bilingual this year! I will be leading bilingual worship and a bilingual devo, translating, and teaching a class in Spanish. If you’re in the area and want to join us, there are still spots open!