(by Pastor Norman)

In the parable of the Sower (Luke 8:5-8, 11-15), seed was sown into 4 different soils. Some seed that landed on a path was trampled on and birds ate it. Seed sown on a rocky area germinated but died for lack of soil and moisture. Seed that fell among weeds which grew up and choked it but seed that fell on good soil, germinated and produced a great harvest. Jesus likened the seed to God’s word. Some people hear the word but satan quickly takes it from them so it can have no saving effect on their lives; this is the seed that fell on the path. The seed that fell on the rocks describes people who get excited by the word but have no depth, as they face the trials, trouble and temptations of life, the word is forgotten. The seed growing with weeds describes people who lose sight of the word amongst the cares, concerns and materialism in the world around them. The good soil refers to people with a real heart of love for God and who stick with the word, allowing it to change and grow them into all God has for them (2 Cor 3:18; Heb 4:12). God wants each of us to be good soil! We are called to grow beyond the foundations of our faith to become mature Christians and ambassadors for God (Heb 6:1-3; 2 Cor 5:20). The apostle Peter exhorted us to, “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18; NKJV). The early church is such a good example of good soil as they, “devoted themselves to the apostles teaching” (Acts 2:42; NLT). We should do the same.