The Good Soil

“And the seed in the good soil, these are the ones who have heard the word in an honest and good heart, and hold it fast, and bear fruit with perseverance.” Luke 8:15

The seed and soil are inseparably linked in nature’s cycle of growth. Good seed must lodge in good soil if there is to be a harvest.

Jesus’ parable of the soil and seed is familiar to most. His message is clear: it is the condition of the soil, not the content of the seed or the actions of the sower, that governs a persons response to the Gospel of Christ.

This should bring a sigh of relief to many fervent evangelicals who wonder why people don’t instantly and enthusiastically embrace Christ as Savior when the Gospel is presented.

There is no need for a guilt trip, burdening yourself with thoughts like, “If only I had remembered that fourth point.” Nor should you run out and enlist in yet another course in evangelism.

The seed, God’s Word, is always good. It is the soil - the person’s heart, personality, will, and emotions - that must be prepared to receive Christ.

God works by His Spirit though people and circumstances to attract men and women to faith in Christ. Evangelism is a process, and sharing your faith is part of the equation. But don’t despair when the feedback is negative. When the conditions are right, faith will blossom.