Jesus tells a parable about a farmer sowing seeds to illustrate different responses to God's word. Some seeds fall on the path and are eaten by birds, representing those who do not understand. Some fall on rocky ground and sprout quickly but die because they lack roots, representing those who receive God's word with joy but fall away in times of trouble. Other seeds are choked by thorns, representing those whose faith is undermined by worldly worries. The seeds that fall on good soil produce a large crop, representing those who understand and obey God's word.

1. THE PARABLE OF PARABLES Matthew 13:1-23

15. WHAT IS A PARABLE?

29. WHY JESUS USED PARABLES

31. SO WHAT?

33. NOW WHAT?