Matt. 13

Will you go to heaven when you die?  Most would say "yes", but I think the reality will be "no" for far too many.  Don't miss the intention that Jesus had in teaching the parables of the kingdom of God in this chapter.

Jesus begins with the parable of the soils.  In His explanation He said there are 4 types of soil.  There is the soil on the path, soil in rocky places, soil among thorns and good soil.  Jesus is clearly talking about the "soil" of our hearts; our response to the gospel!

Notice three of the four soils don't get it! In Mark (4:13), Jesus said understanding this parable is key to understanding all of the parables.  Only one soil is considered "good soil".  What makes it good?  Bottom line is that it bears fruit.  In the other three examples no fruit is produced.

Soil #1 = seed is snatched before it ever is understood.

Soil #2 = as soon as difficulty comes, they fall away

Soil #3 = mixed with worries of this world and other desires

Soil #4 = fruitfulness

Are you good soil?  Notice the qualities.  First, they hear the word. Second, they understand it. Third, they DO what God says.  This produces the fruit of faith.  The evidence of true salvation.

My prayer is that God will bear fruit in all of our lives and that we will demonstrate that we are "good soil".  Be encouraged today.

Read it here.