As kids in school, we probably all put a seed into a tiny styrofoam cup and watched it sprout. As simple as it is for even the least experienced farmers to grow something, it’s still amazing to think about how God designed the seed. With this simple, yet incredibly complex idea, Jesus began speaking in parables with a story about someone planting seed (Luke 8:5-8). While many were confused, fortunately Jesus explains himself in a powerful way.

The Big Idea: God transforms our lives from the inside out when first we prepare our hearts to receive His word.

The Seed

“Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God” (Luke 8:11).

  • The seed is the Word of God (Luke 8:11)
  • The seed is able to save (James 1:21)
  • The seed is Christ living in me (Gal 2:20)

Preparing the Way

“The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe for a while, and in time of testing fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature” (Luke 8:12-14).

  • Avoid the path — the word finds no place within your heart (John 8:37)
  • Remove the rocks — there’s no depth and you fail the test (2 Cor. 13:5)
  • Rip out the thorns — you love the world more than God (1 Tim. 6:9-10)

The Good Soil

“As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience” (Luke 8:15).

  • The good soil holds it firmly (1 Cor. 15:58)
  • The good soil is an honest and good heart (James 1:20-21)
  • The good soil bears fruit patiently (Gal. 5:22-24)

Conclusion

As we start this series considering the field of our heart first, we’re the only ones we can control. Though we can’t strong-arm anyone to receiving the gospel, we are responsible for ourselves. Are you willing to receive the implanted word?