The Parable of the Sower

The Latin Sower Square

 Examining the Condition of Your Heart

Stephen Armstrong, a gifted pastor and Bible teacher, was renowned for his insightful, verse-by-verse teaching of Scripture. In his series on the Gospel of Matthew, Armstrong explored the book’s uniquely Jewish perspective, highlighting its role in connecting Old Testament prophecy with its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While teaching on the Parable of the Sower, he offered profound insights that challenged listeners to examine their own spiritual condition. In this study, we focus on this powerful teaching from Jesus (Matthew 13:1-23), which calls us to reflect on how the Word of God takes root in our hearts. Armstrong’s use of a conceptual framework, the Latin square, sheds light on the deeper truths within this parable.

A Framework for Understanding: The Latin Square

The Parable of the Sower describes four distinct responses to the Word of God. While it’s tempting to analyze each condition exhaustively, Armstrong reminds us that doing so may cause us to lose sight of the bigger picture. To better grasp the parable’s message, he introduces a helpful framework: a Latin square, a grid that organizes variables to reveal unique combinations.

In the parable, the two key variables are:

1. The inward reality of the heart: Is the person spiritually dead or alive after hearing the Word?

2. The outward appearance of faith: Does the person outwardly display faith, or is their unbelief evident?

By crossing these two variables, we uncover the four possible conditions Jesus describes.

The Four Conditions

Condition 1: Spiritually Dead and Outwardly Faithless

“As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up” (Matthew 13:4, NIV).

This represents a hardened heart. The individual rejects the Gospel entirely, showing no interest in spiritual things. Satan, symbolized by the birds, snatches the truth away before it can take root (Matthew 13:19). This person’s spiritual death and outward unbelief are unmistakable.

Condition 2: Spiritually Dead but Outwardly Faithful

“Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow” (Matthew 13:5, NIV).

This describes someone who outwardly responds with enthusiasm to the Gospel. They may attend church, join a Bible study, or even be baptized. However, their faith lacks depth and spiritual root. When trials or persecution come, they quickly fall away, revealing their unchanged, spiritually dead heart (Matthew 13:20-21).

Condition 3: Spiritually Alive but Outwardly Fruitless

“Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants” (Matthew 13:7, NIV).

Here we see a person who has genuinely responded to the Gospel and is spiritually alive. Yet, their life becomes consumed by “the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth” (Matthew 13:22, NIV). While they are saved, they fail to produce the spiritual fruit that glorifies God. This condition challenges believers to examine their priorities and guard against distractions.

Condition 4: Spiritually Alive and Outwardly Faithful

“Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown” (Matthew 13:8, NIV).

This represents the ideal response to the Gospel: a heart that is transformed and bears abundant spiritual fruit. Jesus explains, “But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown” (Matthew 13:23, NIV).

The Big Picture

Armstrong emphasized that the Parable of the Sower is ultimately about self-reflection and the call to spiritual growth. Jesus challenges His listeners to ask: What kind of soil am I? Are we allowing God’s Word to transform us fully, or are we distracted by worldly cares? Are we bearing fruit that glorifies God?

Paul reminds us of the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23: “love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” These fruits are evidence of a heart that has been changed by the Word of God.

A Call to Action

Jesus concludes the parable with these words:

“Whoever has ears, let them hear” (Matthew 13:9, NIV).

Armstrong encouraged believers to take this as a personal challenge. Hearing the Word is not enough; we must understand it, apply it, and allow it to shape our lives. As David prayed in Psalm 139:23-24:

“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

May we strive to be the good soil, faithfully receiving God’s Word and bearing fruit for His Kingdom.

Soli Deo Gloria

Waiting for the Harvest

Patience and Redemption in the Wheat and Weeds Parable

In the vast tapestry of biblical teachings, Jesus often wove profound truths into everyday stories, and among them stands the compelling narrative of the Wheat and Weeds. This parable, found in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43), offers us invaluable insights into the complex interplay of good and evil in our lives and the world around us.

The Parable Unveiled

In the parable, a farmer sows good seed in his field, only to find that an enemy has maliciously scattered weeds among the wheat. When his servants suggest removing the weeds, the farmer wisely advises against it, knowing that premature intervention could harm the wheat. Instead, he instructs them to wait until the harvest, when both wheat and weeds can be effectively separated.

Key Verse: Matthew 13:30

Jesus said, "Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn."

Patience and Redemption: Lessons from the Parable

1. Coexistence of Good and Evil: The parable illustrates the reality of living in a world where good and evil coexist. Just as the wheat and weeds grow together, we encounter both righteousness and wickedness in our daily lives. How do we navigate this tension while striving to live a life of righteousness?

2. God's Patience and Mercy: The farmer's decision to wait for the harvest symbolizes God's patience and mercy towards us. Instead of immediately uprooting evil, God allows time for repentance and redemption, offering us countless opportunities to turn towards Him. How can we cultivate patience in our own lives, trusting in God's timing and mercy?

3. The Final Judgment: The harvest represents the end times when Jesus will return to judge the world. This underscores the ultimate accountability of every individual before God and the certainty of a final reckoning. What steps can we take today to prepare ourselves for this inevitable judgment?

Additional Insights from Scripture

Drawing upon other verses from the Bible, we gain deeper understanding and reinforcement of the themes presented in the Wheat and Weeds Parable.

• Romans 12:21 reminds us of the call to overcome evil with good, echoing the farmer's decision not to let evil overshadow the growth of the wheat. How can we actively combat evil in our lives and in the world around us?

• Revelation 22:12 speaks of the promise of Christ's return and the reward He brings, emphasizing the certainty of the final judgment, where each person will be rewarded according to their deeds. What are we doing to prepare for this ultimate reward?

• 2 Peter 3:9 assures us of God's patience and desire for all to come to repentance, mirroring the farmer's patience in waiting for the harvest. How can we align our hearts with God's desire for repentance and redemption?

Embracing the Lessons Today

The phrase "Whoever has ears, let them hear" appears twice in Matthew 13 alone, following Jesus' teachings or parables. It serves as a call to attentiveness and receptivity to spiritual truths.

In essence, "Whoever has ears, let them hear" serves as an invitation to engage fully with the teachings of Jesus, to listen attentively, to seek understanding, and to respond with obedience and faith. It reminds us that true wisdom and insight come not just from hearing words but from allowing them to penetrate our hearts and transform our lives.

As we reflect on these scriptures and the timeless truths of the Wheat and Weeds Parable, may we be encouraged to cultivate patience, trust, and faithfulness in God's ultimate plan for redemption and judgment. Let us wait patiently for the harvest, knowing that in due time, God will separate the wheat from the weeds, and His redemptive plan will come to fruition.

Soli Deo Gloria

The Power of Parables

Unveiling the Mystery

The Power of Parables in Understanding the Kingdom of God

In the gospel of Matthew, we find Jesus speaking to the crowds in parables, prompting his disciples to inquire about the purpose behind this unique form of teaching. In Matthew 13:10-13, Jesus responds by explaining that while the secrets of the kingdom of heaven are revealed to his disciples, they remain hidden to others. He uses parables to convey profound truths to those who are receptive, while veiling them from those whose hearts are hardened.

Similarly, in Matthew 13:34-35, we see Jesus fulfilling the prophecy by speaking exclusively in parables, unveiling truths hidden since the creation of the world. These passages illuminate the significance of parables in conveying spiritual truths to humanity.

A parable is more than just a story; it is a window into the mysteries of the kingdom of God. It presents a narrative that resonates with everyday life while concealing deeper spiritual truths within its folds. Like a masterful painting, a parable invites the listener to gaze beyond the surface and discern the hidden layers of meaning.

The power of parables lies in their ability to engage the imagination and provoke contemplation. Through simple yet profound narratives, Jesus challenges his listeners to reconsider their assumptions and view the world through a different lens. It is in this moment of revelation that the truth emerges, illuminating the path to understanding the mysteries of God's kingdom.

As we reflect on the purpose of parables, we are reminded of their transformative potential in our lives. Just as the disciples were called to decipher the hidden truths within Jesus' teachings, so too are we invited to engage with the parables and unlock their spiritual significance.

May we approach the parables of Jesus with open hearts and receptive minds, allowing the light of truth to penetrate the darkness of our understanding. And may we, like the disciples, come to see and understand the mysteries of the kingdom of God, finding freedom and enlightenment in the timeless wisdom contained within these sacred stories.

Soli Deo Gloria

Good and Faithful

Reading Matthew 25:14-30

 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!' Matthew 25:21 

 The Kingdom of God was likened by Jesus to a land lord who goes on a long journey. Before he goes he calls three of his servants and entrusts them with money according to their ability. When the land lord returns two of the servants doubled their money. The land lord is delighted with the two good and faithful servants, praises them and rewards them with double measure of money. The one who was given the least played it safe and just buries it in the ground. In addition to this the servant rebukes the master for being so unfair and unkind to him. The master is furious. He calls him lazy and wicked and throws him out into the darkness where he weeps and wails over his stupidity. God is not disappointed if we try our best and fail. It is our effort that he will reward. The land lord punishes the man because he does not make any effort to use his talents and glorify God.

This parable is based on the principle that when we have a talent and practice it regularly we become better and can progressively do more and more with it. If we fail to exercise it we will eventually lose the talent. What are the gifts, talents, and abilities that God entrusts us with and expects us to faithfully use them for his glory? For example one can be a dish washer who washes the dishes or manager who takes care of a company or wordsmith who writes books or athlete who plays in a professional team. If we use our gifts and live lives that give the glory to God we have faithfully discharged our duty. However if we live bitter lives and bury our gifts, we do not honor God.

We must always remember whatever we have is not our own. It has been entrusted to us to use to bring glory to God's name. When we aspire and try to make a name for ourselves or amass wealth for ourselves we are doing this to glorify ourselves and not God. God knows our thoughts and our intentions; we must be careful with how we use them. God is not looking at our success or brilliance but our faithfulness and love we express toward Him.

 We see two contrasting manner of responses to the call, given by the servants. Two of them did their best to use their gifts serve God's Kingdom. They respond with growth, fruitfulness, and faithfulness. But beware of being like the servant who did not use his gifts to serve God’s kingdom, but instead is bitter, rebellious and unfaithful. He also expressed fear and bitterness toward God more than love and faithfulness. When we productively use our gifts to serve one another in love, then we are of great use for the Kingdom of God (1 Peter 4:10-12). Jesus told the parable because he wants us to understand this truth about what it means to be Good and Faithful.  Whatever we do, we should work at it with all our heart to build up God’s Kingdom with Christ as the head and the source of all our wisdom(Ephesians 4:15-16).

Prayer : - Lord Jesus, may we always speak the truth in love and grow up to be more like you. Watch over our thoughts and actions and direct us to build up the whole body of believers to love another and love you as our Lord. Amen.

Cornerstone

The Parable of the Tenants 

Matthew 21:42 Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures: "'The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes'?

(Matthew 21:33-46 Mark 12:1-12 Luke 20:9-19)

Ephesians 2:11-22

In his last and final days in Jerusalem after his triumphant entry, Jesus spoke to the people and Jewish Leaders about the parable of the tenants. In this parable the Land Lord leases his vineyard to tenants and left for a different country. When he sent his servants for his share of the fruits, they were beaten and sent away empty. So he sends his only son, but they kill him.  Will not the wrath of the Landlord come down crushingly on the tenants? Jesus was clearly prophesying about his coming death, this made the Jewish Leaders, furious and want to do away with him. 

One of the quotations about the corner stone that Jesus is referring to is found in the Old Testament where David (Psalm 118:22) says the stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. It was applicable to David who was rejected by King Saul, who later was the one on whom the nation of Israel was built. The day David was put on the throne was the dawn of a new era for the nation of Israel (Luke 1:32-33).

The cornerstone is an essential and indispensible part of a building. Jesus life, death and resurrection are the cornerstone, on which the church is built. The teachings and lives of the prophets and apostles are the foundation of the building (Ephesians 2:20) with Christ who is the cornerstone.

Christ quoted the same words when the shadow of the cross was looming large in Jerusalem. He was prophesying that he was going to be humiliated and rejected. Following his resurrection God was going to exalt him make him the corner stone on which God would build. The stone, which the builders thought as unfit, was to become the principal stone of the whole church. It is here where God has laid the foundation for all our hopes, and joys.

The amazing power of this corner stone is that those of us who trust on the corner stone to be their strength and foundation will never regret it. They will be broken and made into living stones being built up brick by brick, stone by stone, to be part of the sanctuary (Spiritual home). They are the building material he uses to build the church as we are fastened and fitted together in love to be the house of God. He chips and breaks of the unwanted parts of our lives, and makes us into faithful stewards of his word. God himself is the architect and builder where every one has a place to be part of church. But to those who are untrusting, they will be crushed as predicted because they refuse to obey.

Today what is the power that strengthens the church and holds it up together? The world and many of the nations continue to be torn apart by War, Terrorism, Overpopulation, Hunger and Economic collapse. Above all ethnic, racial, and cultural divides within countries divide and create hostility and hatred. People are living under tremendous pressure and burdens that are overwhelming. They are heartbroken, depressed and lonely.

It was to a similar world that Jesus came. The Romans were ruling over Israel. There was a big divide between Jews and Gentiles. All the problems the world faces today were there in varying forms. But the only difference being today we have our lives that can be centered on Christ who is our cornerstone, that anchors our lives and cements us with love, peace and goodwill toward all people.

At this time of lent let us draw near to God’s throne of mercy and find hope and grace to help us in our time of need to live in unity (Hebrews 4:16). Is there anybody you have a prejudice toward? Is there anybody you are not reconciled to? We all are centered on Christ who is our cornerstone. Without Christ we would all just crumble and be crushed. It is Christ who fills us and sustains us with all joy and peace. By the power of the Holy Spirit we continue to overflow in hope (Romans 15:13). Let us live as a people who believe in the God of hope who died for the sins of us all. Let us continue to pray for renewal and change.

Good Fish Vs Bad Fish

The Parable of the Net 

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered every kind of fish: Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away. So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth Jesus said, Have you understood all these things? They said, Yea, Lord.

Matthew 13:47-51

 

The US Department of Homeland security maintains a “No Fly List”, which is a list of people not permitted to board commercial flights to travel in the United States. When business expenses exceed income the manager knows he made a net loss. If he continues to incur losses at some point he will become bankrupt, and get on to the much dreaded no credit (bankruptcy) list. When we say a person has been black listed it can be of significant embarrassment to the individual. One suffers a loss of credibility and goodwill.

In the eyes of the world we all know and understand when one who has been black listed, no fly listed, or no credit (bankrupt) listed. Sometimes we feel compassion towards these who due to unforeseen circumstances like a sickness, death or just because they belong to a race, religion, or country are greatly disadvantaged. But most cases we are willing to go to any lengths to stay clear and good, even to go to any extent to stay off these lists or even associate with these people.

When we see those who very openly oppose the gospel today, how do we make them see the light of the gospel?

Does this parable mean that the Kingdom of God is only limited to the scope of those who were caught in the net. Don’t we hear the wails and cries of the people on judgment day who will scream aren’t we all saved? Will Christ have compassion on them like he did with the thief on the cross? When things go wrong is there something that evil at work? Why does God allow evil or Satan to exist? What do we fear more the grace of God or the judgment of God?

Pray we may all be found in the good list.

In the last day Jesus said, the separation of the good from the bad is going to a happen. It is not we who will separate the good from the bad, but the angels or God in his infinite wisdom. To some this parable could be an encouragement that they are on the right track, to others a warning to turn back and follow Christ.

Just like none of us is privy to the list we can only point in the direction of the good list and say what one has to do to be on that list. We can only let our little lights shine today and for the rest of eternity. After all we are only a mere reflection of the fountain of light. Lord we simply accept you and turn towards your light so that we may see clearly the way you have set for us.

We trust in your mercy and grace, and claim the free gift of eternal life which is given to all who believe in you. Just as you forgave the thief on the cross, knowing that he turned out of fear of death, please remember us when you come into your Kingdom. For we know your grace does not depend on anything we have done, but completely and entirely on your death and final victory over death through your resurrection.

Kingdom of God

Spreading the Yeast, One (K)need at a time

Jesus said, What shall I compare the kingdom of God? It is like yeast, which a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till the whole had risen. Luke 13:20-21

 Secrets of good bread - Midstate Mills

  

The Word of God is alive, and the new life it brings causes people to rise and praise God in unison. The yeast is very small and can hardly be seen with our eyes. All you need is a tiny portion that slowly makes the huge measures of flour to rise.

The flour that is so tasteless becomes tasty and so sweet smelling. How sweet the sound of Jesus is to a believer’s ears. It is a mysterious process that allows a small mass of dough to become a sweet loaf of bread.

Behold, the kingdom of God is within you. Luke 17:21

It shows how the kingdom grows silently, transfusing our body, mind and soul. We see the power of the Holy Spirit working in the lives of those around us. However small the beginnings may be, through the working of the Holy Spirit it will grow and be a blessing.

Jesus spoke to us through God’s Word in parables so that we could grasp and understand God in an earthly way. Christ shows that the gospel has the ability to spread fast and quickly. We as Christians are hardly effective but if the Spirit of Christ dwells in in us and is able to work through us to touch the lives of our fellow men we can be effective.

Today as we move on 2000 years after the birth, teaching, death, and resurrection of Christ we can see how it has impacted the lives of so many nations and people down through the ages. We see its influence on our laws, politics, art, calendars, holidays, culture and moral priorities. The impact Christianity has particularly had on the poor and needy and the number of disciples of Christ who have sacrificed their lives to serve them can no longer be counted.

Slowly but surely the spirit of Christ has influenced our lives over the years as we continue to rise and mature under the watchful eyes of our Lord.

Prayer: Lord we give you all the glory, honor and praise as we accept you as the King of our hearts. Be our guide through thick and thin and may your tender hand lead us on to your Kingdom in Heaven. Amen

Salt of the Earth

Salt of the Earth

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot." Matthew 5:13

 

Jesus uses salt as a metaphor, and says when it loses its saltiness it is no longer good or useful and has to be thrown away.  What does Jesus mean when he says that we are the salt of the earth? Some of the characteristics of salt that come to my mind are that it is a preservative, pure white in color and adds flavor.

In a world where standards are constantly being lowered until a crisis occurs, what are our standards of honesty, diligence, and morality? Are they low, high or not there at all? The world (earth) is always in a state of unrest. Most countries have appropriate regulations, although on some occasions poor regulations have lead to disastrous consequences. Some of the most powerful nations today stagger under financial problems, and many smaller countries are plagued not just with financial problems but also with corruption and disease. 

Salt helps to preserve substances from corruption. We are called to be a people who enable others to lead better lives free from corrupting influences. Our transparent lives will let the light of Christ shine through our words and deeds. Salt is a powerful agent that works within the substance that it is in (Hebrews 4:12). When we see others as Christ sees them our words and deeds will encourage others to be imitators of Christ. God's word laid in the hearts and minds of those we meet with (Colossians 4:6), will be a positive influence on their thoughts and attitudes. As the Ancient Hymn goes, we should ”thank God with our hearts and hands and voices, so that the world may rejoice for the wonderous things God has done.”

Van Gogh was staying in an institution for the mentally ill when he painted this work, in May 1890. It is a mirrored copy of Eugène Delacroix' Good Samaritan. 

As followers of Christ we are called to look at our levels of enthusiasm. Enthusiasm is word that was derived from the Greek word ἐνθουσιασμός (enthousiasmos), which means "be inspired," or possessed by God. It also means to be in God. In the parable of the good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) , Jesus applauded the attitude of the good Samaritan who compassionately cared for a wounded traveler on the road. Today if you see a person in need do you look away because he/she is not part of your race, social class or religion? Or are we like the priest who is overzealous about his faith, but does not feel the need to help the wounded man on the road?

Jesus asked the experts in law “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise." 

Poem from "The Salt Of The Earth" Hattie Howard

"If ever this world from corruption is free,
And righteousness reign in the kingdom to be,
Like salt in its simple and soluble way
Infusing malodor, preventing decay.
So human endeavor in action sublime
Must never relax till the finale of time."  

Prayer

Oh Lord we pray our lives be the salt of the earth 

May we taste and see God’s goodness everyday of our lives

May we stir a pinch of Gods flavor in everything we say

May we blend the essence of Jesus love within our friends and family

May our lives be a fragrant offering of love to our God the Father

Amen