The parable of the sower is found in Matthew 13:1-23 (also Mark 4 and Luke 8).
The parable itself (Matthew 13:3-9) is an incredibly simple story about farming. It describes the likely outcome of seed that was planted in 4 types of soil.
Before Jesus gives the meaning of the parable of the sower there is a pause to explain why He taught in parables (Matthew 13:10-17). Are parables used to confuse people or to make things more understandable? What do you make of Jesus’ words in these verses?
Next Jesus gives the explanation of the parable and the meaning of the 4 types of soil (Matthew 13:19-23).
Dig in to the details found in the 3 different accounts and consider the significance of each expression. How are the spiritual outcomes are similar to the 4 types or soil, and how do they truly represent obstacles in our lives that hinder us from accepting the gospel and being fruitful Christians for God?
For example:
Seed on the Wayside:
Matthew 13:4 “And as he sowed, some seed fell by the wayside; and the birds came and devoured them.
Mark 4:4 “And it happened, as he sowed, that some seed fell by the wayside; and the birds of the air came and devoured it.
Luke 8:5 “A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside; and it was trampled down, and the birds of the air devoured it.
Jesus’s explanation:
Matthew 13:19 “When anyone hears the word of the kingdom, and does not understand it, then the wicked one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is he who received seed by the wayside.
Mark 4:15 “And these are the ones by the wayside where the word is sown. When they hear, Satan comes immediately and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts.
Luke 8:12 “Those by the wayside are the ones who hear; then the devil comes and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.
Do the same for the 3 remaining types of soil.
Feel free to answer the questions or add any additional thoughts in the comments section below. Everyone is invited to Virtual Bible class at 7 pm Wednesday Night on Facebook Live and Zoom. Like our Facebook page to receive notification when we are about to begin.
