The Sower: Jesus Teaches About Doing What God Wants

The disciples asked Jesus why he spoke to the people in parables, so he explained to them the deeper meaning of the story.

The farmer stands for a person who spreads the 'word' or 'good news' about Jesus Christ.

The seed that fell on the hard path is like the word of God falling on hard hearts and ears that don't want to listen. The enemy of God, like the birds, snatches the seed away.

The shallow soil covering the rock is like people who accept the good news about Jesus, but it doesn't make a difference to their lives. Problems get in the way, and as soon as difficulties come into their lives they give up. They have no staying power.

The thorny ground is like those who hear and accept the good news , but they are so taken up with the problems in life, and trying to get rich, that any thoughts about God get smothered. They end up not living very fruitful lives.

But the good soil is like the hearts of people who hear God's message about the love of Jesus. God's word takes root in their lives so that they understand and follow God's way, and become productive in God's kingdom.

You can find this story in the Bible. Read it for yourself in Matthew chapter 13 verses 1 - 23.