The Groud Of The Heart
Jesus used parables to reveal the kingdom of heaven to those who’s hearts were ready to receive it, but the parables also cloaked the kingdom from those who’s hearts were far from God. The parables encouraged watchfulness, faithfulness, stewardship, commitment, etc., as well as revelation of the kingdom. As the parable of the sower reveals though, it depended on the ground of the heart on how the revelation of God would be received. Stony ground was hard, crusted over ground that revealed a hard heart that would be tough to penetrate with the truth of God’s Word. Therefore when persecution came as a result of their receiving the Word they were offended, not being rooted and grounded. Wayside ground was that heart that allowed the enemy to snatch what little revelation it did receive. The ground full of thorns was that heart that let worldly cares become more influential than the Word of God. But the good ground represented that heart that received the Word of God, and understanding it, produced fruit. The parables reveal an aspect of the kingdom, but it’s only received by those who have an ear to hear what the Spirit of the Lord is saying unto the Church. They that hunger and thirst after righteousness shall be filled. God promised that if we seek Him He would be found of us, Is. 55:6. What makes the difference is the ground of the heart. God reveals Himself to those whom seek after Him. The study of the parables will shed much light on God’s will for the Church and our place in the great commission. The parables are also warnings to the people of God on how we will suffer grave consequences if we become lethargic and careless, even as we see that day approaching. Keep the Vision Alive!
In His Service,
Pastor Jeffery A. Muchison


