Bible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample

The Parable of Sowing Read Mark 4:1-20 He told them, “The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables so that, “‘they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise they might turn and be forgiven!’” Mark 4:11-12 By the time Jesus spoke this parable, He had called His disciples, launched His public ministry, and already met opposition. So He taught the parable before the multitudes and set forth a prognosis of the proclamation of the word of God. The parable shows a contrast regarding what happens when most of the scattered seeds do not produce a harvest – they are devoured, withered, or choked (vs 4-7) but some do produce abundantly (v 8) In this parable, seeds that fell along the path, rocky soil, and among thorns failed to produce any harvest. However, seeds that fell on good soil were unusually productive with yields of thirty, sixty or a hundred times. The meaning of the parable within the context of Mark runs as follows. Jesus faithfully proclaimed the word. History has shown us that the harvest has been abundant in some places, scant in others. This parable is a word of encouragement to the Asian church today. We are to be faithful in proclaiming God’s word, just like the farmer who liberally sows his seeds. Even though our efforts may seem to be fruitless, the present situation is not a time to be faint-hearted. We must not allow failures to rule the day. We must continue to sow the seeds in order to reap the harvest. Have you been disheartened by discouraging response in your service for God? If so, how has this parable helped you in your perspective concerning your ministry?