What obstacles might prevent us from effectively spreading God's word to others?

The Seed and the Sower

“ “The farmer sows the word.” ” (Mark 4:14)

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Obstacles in the Hearer

• Hardened path hearts (Mark 4:15)

– Satan “takes away the word.”

– 2 Corinthians 4:4: minds blinded “so they cannot see the light of the gospel.”

• Shallow, rocky hearts (Mark 4:16-17)

– Initial joy, no roots.

– Trouble or persecution causes quick falling away.

– Matthew 13:21 echoes the same danger of stumbling.

• Thorn-choked hearts (Mark 4:18-19)

– “Worries of this life.”

– “Deceit of wealth.”

– “Desires for other things.”

– 1 John 2:15-17 warns that love for the world pushes out love for the Father.

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Obstacles in the Messenger

• Fear of rejection (2 Timothy 1:7).

• Inadequate preparation (1 Peter 3:15).

• Discouragement when results seem slow (Galatians 6:9).

• Personal compromise that dulls credibility (Philippians 2:15-16).

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Spiritual Opposition

• Ongoing warfare (Ephesians 6:12).

• Need for armor and perseverance (Ephesians 6:13, 18-20).

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Competing Cultural Voices

• “Every wind of teaching” (Ephesians 4:14).

• False gospels that distort grace (Galatians 1:6-9).

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Overcoming the Obstacles

• Keep sowing—good soil exists (Mark 4:20).

• Trust the inherent power of the seed (Isaiah 55:11).

• Cultivate personal holiness so the message rings true (Titus 2:7-8).

• Rely on the Spirit, not human eloquence (1 Corinthians 2:4-5).