1. Three unproductive soils (18-22)

The path represents the heart-soil of one who re- jects God's word because he does not understand it. His problem is not ignorance; it is pride. One with a humble heart receives God's word because it is God's word. He holds on to it until God works. Then he understands. The rocky soil represents one who receives the word joyfully--but only in his head. He doesn't let the roots go down into his heart--so he never repents. So, when people criticize him, or his family or friend oppose his Bible study, he quits Bible study. The thorns represent the person who is busy- minded. Perhaps he is worried about his future; or perhaps he is a pleasure-seeker. So the seed of the word in his heart can't grow.

2. Good heart-soil (23)

One who receives the word in his heart and obeys it is good soil. His life bears good fruit--30, 60, 100 times what was sown. His life makes up for the three unfruitful heart-soils.

Application: Lord, let my heart and life be good soil each time I study your word or listen to a message.
One Word: Be fruitful soil