Several of us from the Southwest Church spent time in Oklahoma City last weekend at the Affirming the Faith seminar. This year’s theme was “Unfinished Business.” The main idea through the keynote lessons and many of the classes is that there is still plenty of work for us to do. There is so much truth in those simple words.
Each of us has the responsibility and ability to share the good news of Jesus with those around us day to day. For many reasons, we convince ourselves that it is not something we can do or something that will be effective. Jesus speaks about those misconceptions with the parable of the sower in Matthew 13. Seed is sown on a path, on rocky ground, among thorns and on good soil. As we might expect, seed sown in each area has different results.
The seed sown on the path is quickly eaten by birds. There are those we will tell about Jesus who will not understand or accept that good news. Even though the seed is good, growth never begins.
The seed sown on the rocky ground begins to grow but is scorched by the sun. Some will receive the good news well, but then life gets difficult. If their faith does not take root, they may soon leave it behind.
The seed sown among the thorns grows but is choked out by them. People may hear the message and even grow in faith, but as the world continues to bring them down they eventually give up.
The seed sown on good soil takes root, grows and multiplies. When we bring the gospel to people like this, their lives are changed. They share that experience with others who share it with others. Disciples make more disciples.
There are many truths we can learn from this parable, but here are five to think about.
- The seed is good regardless of the result. Whether it is accepted or rejected by those who hear it, the word of God is true.
- Don’t be discouraged when the results are not what you hope they will be. Jesus made it clear that results would vary. Just keep sharing the good news.
- Don’t assume that you will be rejected or that it cannot work. If we sow consistently enough, we will find the good soil.
- Remember that the kingdom growth goes beyond the people we share the good news with. That one person the gospel takes root with because of your efforts can share the gospel with countless more who may do the same. Your efforts have a real effect on the kingdom.
- It is up to each of us to sow the seed. We can all share the story of Jesus, and lives will be changed when we do.
Let’s get to work on our unfinished business this week!
– Brian
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)