How can we support others in understanding and applying the word sown? the seed and its certainty “The sower sows the word.” (Mark 4:14) • God’s Word is living, enduring, and literally true (1 Peter 1:23; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Because the seed is perfect, any failure of growth lies in the soil or the care, never in the Word itself. prepare the soil of hearts • Pray for softened ground (Ezekiel 36:26). • Model humility and repentance—good soil is receptive soil (James 1:21). • Guard against distractions and hardening influences (Proverbs 4:23). sow deliberately • Share Scripture plainly and in context. • Tell how the verse met your own need; testimony makes sowing relatable (Psalm 66:16). • Keep pointing back to Christ; He is the Word incarnate (John 1:14). water consistently • Meet regularly for Bible reading and discussion (Colossians 3:16). • Encourage memorization; the seed takes root as it is hidden in the heart (Psalm 119:11). • Pray for illumination; “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). nourish with explanation and example • Explain difficult passages with other clear texts (Acts 17:11). • Live the message so others see application in real time (Philippians 4:9). • Celebrate small steps of obedience; growth is often gradual (Mark 4:26-29). protect from birds and weeds • Equip with the “sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Ephesians 6:17)—teach discernment. • Pray against the enemy who snatches seed (Mark 4:15). • Help identify worldly cares that choke growth (Mark 4:18-19); encourage single-minded devotion (Matthew 6:33). harvest and reproduce • Expect fruit—changed attitudes, service, witness (John 15:5). • When fruit appears, invite the new believer to become a sower; “I planted, Apollos watered, but God made it grow” (1 Corinthians 3:6). • Multiplication is the normal outcome of healthy seed in good soil (Mark 4:20). keep trusting the grower • Our role: sow, water, nurture. • God’s role: give life and increase. • Confidence rests in His unchanging promise: “My word that goes out from My mouth… will accomplish what I please” (Isaiah 55:11). |
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