Meaning of the Seed Parable.

Luke 8:11-15
11 "This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God. 12 Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. 13 Those on the rock are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. 14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. 15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.

This passage conveys the idea that people receive and respond to God's word in different manners; it is compared to the different types of soil. Let's break it down further...

The path - is full of solid dirt. These people are stubborn and are very routine. Therefore, they are less willing to change their ways. When you try to talk to some people about God, they immediately turn the blind eye to you because they think they have it all figured out: God will change my life (so what?). They say something like, "I'm good enough the way I am." They don't give you a chance to give your witness and immediately ignore you. They don't even want to consider giving God a chance!

The rock - has a light amount of moisture covering it that enables the seed to sprout, but the seeds can't penetrate the surface. Thus, when the sun comes out, the plant doesn't live long. People that are comparable to this idea are those that allow Jesus to somewhat get on their surface. That is, they enjoy going to church. However, they never let Jesus penetrate their lives and enter their hearts. They are unable to develop a strong sense of faith. Because of this, when problems arise, they quickly "fall away" and lose every last drop of Jesus.

Seeds with weeds - actually start to grow. These people having a bit of faith. However, the weeds soon take over and they are "choked." What are the weeds? The weeds are our excuses like "I'm too busy for God," and the temptations that we deal with. Basically, it's anything that draws us away from God.

Seeds in good soil - are the type that we all need to shoot for. That includes people who are: open-minded, kind, loving, helpful, accepting of the Word, longing for a strong relationship with Christ, and able to ignore distractions.

That wraps up my idea of the detailed account of this parable in the Bible. Take this time to evaluate where you are as a person. Can you accept the truth of what Jesus has to say in this passage? See if you can make any adjustments in order to strengthen your roots and be planted in more favorable soil - as you walk with Christ for the rest of your life!

"May the strength of God pilot us, may the wisdom of God instruct us, may the hand of God protect us, may the word of God direct us. Be always ours this day and for evermore." - St. Patrick