On this Sixth Sunday after Pentecost, we reflect on Jesus telling his followers the parable of the sower and the seeds. In his parable, Jesus describes four different future outcomes for each of the four types of seeds: the hardened path, the rocky ground, among the thorns, and the good soil. For Matthew's account of this parable, each of the four describes how we might live our lives as followers of Christ. We will discuss each of the four, and reflect about our journeys with Christ and how we might strive to find the "good soil."
Our Scripture passage is found in the Gospel according to Matthew. Our passage may be found by following the provided link: (Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
After reading the first part of our Scripture lesson (Matt. 13:1-9), reflect on portions of this parable that are surprising to you, especially the sower's method of scattering seed, the sower's pre-treatment of the soil (or lack of it), and the types of soil the sower finds.
After reading the second part of our Scripture lesson (Matt 13:18-23), reflect on what you believe the Scripture is saying about the conditions necessary for fruitful discipleship
Read the "WHERE is God..." paragraph below and consider the statement, "Faith is a gift from God, and fruitful discipleship is the work of God in us." What is this statement saying to you and what might its meaning be for your life in Christ?
Read the "NOW WHAT is God..." paragraph below and consider: "if God the sower sows the seeds indiscriminately on all soils as if it were potentially good soil, what are the implications for us as disciples?"
Finish the statement that follows, considering our contemporary times: "the kingdom of God is like..."
