This is the final part in our series on the topic of “Same Seed, Different Soil.” In our previous discussions, we looked at the seed and the various types of soils described in Jesus’ parable in Matthew chapter thirteen. We examined the seeds that fell on the pathway, the seeds that fell on the stony ground, and the seeds that fell among the thorns. Now, we will discuss the fourth type of soil, which yielded a good and bountiful harvest.
“But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold”. Matthew 13:8
In the above passage, Jesus explains the parable of the sower, emphasizing the importance of the fourth soil. This represents those who have prepared their hearts, allowing them to receive and understand the Word of God fully. These individuals, unlike the others, have yielded themselves to spiritual cultivation. Their hearts are open and ready, making them fertile ground for the Word of God to take root and flourish.
Acts 17:11 further illustrates this by describing the Bereans, who received the message with eagerness and examined the Scriptures daily to see if what Paul said was true. “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so”.
Their openness and preparedness of heart enabled them to embrace the Word and defend their faith against spiritual attacks and challenges that others might yield to. These passages emphasize the power of a heart that’s ready and prepared for spiritual growth.
Those who are open and prepared, like the good soil and the Bereans, are able to withstand adversities and experience increase in their faith. By preparing our hearts and continually seeking knowledge of God’s word, we too can become like the fourth soil, resilient and fruitful in our spiritual journey.
While serving as a pastor in Kokori, a village in the Ethiope East Local Government area of Delta State, Nigeria, a young church member confided in me with a heavy heart, expressing his pains that despite his sincere efforts to have a personal encounter with Lord Jesus Christ, he felt he was not making progress. I advised him to empty his heart of all past notions about Christianity. I encouraged him to approach his faith with a fresh perspective, open and be willing to truly learn about God. I assured him, that this could lead to a deeper, more genuine relationship with Christ, free from past misconceptions and barriers.
In the same vein, to have a fruitful and progressive Christian life, one must till the soil of the heart by emptying all preconceived ideas about God.
“For thus saith the LORD to the men of Judah and Jerusalem, Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among thorns”. Jeremiah 4:3.
This means letting go of old beliefs that may hinder spiritual growth and starting afresh, allowing the seed of God’s word to take root. This process requires humility and a willingness to submit for learning. By doing so, believers can experience a transformation in their faith journey. This will ensure that one’s spiritual life is continually nurtured and enriched, creating the way for a more profound and enduring Christian experience.
By John Ogheneovo
