Matthew 13:1-9…“And he told them many things in parables, saying: ‘Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell on the path, and the birds came and ate them up…’” vss. 3-4
Jesus didn’t lack for crowds in the course of his Galilean ministry. Wherever he went people gathered, and he taught them many things, often in the form of parables. The one about the sower is familiar and shows how he felt about those he was teaching. Jesus was no fool and he knew perfectly well that most of the people would be untouched by what he said. Only about a quarter of them would produce fruit in abundance! The rest might be moved for the moment, but his wisdom would have no lasting effect.
Those percentages continue to describe the reaction of people to gospel preaching and teaching. While situations vary, most pastors know that their sermons will have little effect on most of the people in their congregations. About a quarter of them seldom even gather for worship–they never even hear the words that have been so carefully crafted for their benefit. And distractions abound for the rest of the folks. Some are caught up in the cares of the world, while others have been spoiled by television preachers with more interesting messages.
But pastors keep on preaching! Like Jesus, they know that some of their words will strike fertile soil and that the gospel will be heard. Through the work of the Holy Spirit the seed sprouts and the harvest is great.
Thought for the Day: When do sermons produce fruit in me?
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