In Luke 8 today we read the parable of the sower. Jesus explains the meaning of the parable to His disciples so that THEY can make sure that their own hearts are GOOD SOIL for the Word of God to be sown in! To understand how vital this is, look at verses 15-18:
15But as for that [seed] in the good soil, these are [the people] who, hearing the Word, hold it fast in a just (noble, virtuous) and worthy heart, and steadily bring forth fruit with patience.
16No one after he has lighted a lamp covers it with a vessel or puts it under a [dining table] couch; but he puts it on a lampstand, that those who come in may see the light.
17For there is nothing hidden that shall not be disclosed, nor anything secret that shall not be known and come out into the open.
18Be careful therefore how you listen. For to him who has [spiritual knowledge] will more be given; and from him who does not have [spiritual knowledge], even what he thinks and guesses and supposes that he has will be taken away.
Notice that the purpose for us receiving the Word of God is so that we can make it available to others to receive! We're NOT to hoard the Word for ourselves, but to grow up in Him so that we can be in position to reach the lost and make disciples! The warning is found in verse 18! There are people who have spent year after year after year in their local church listening to the Word of God without really hearing it! Jesus spoke of these in verse 10. They THINK they know the Word of God, but have deceived themselves! We must act on the Word we hear in order for it to become real to us and to increase our capacity to receive MORE understanding of the Word! It is a process that takes time, diligence and action! How well do YOU want to know the Word? It's exciting to know that it is entirely up to us! WE CHOOSE! Amen! Choose well! Here is a fun song from Hillsong United called "No Reason To Hide"
Shalom in Him!
