Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian faith, the journey of a convert is often marked by a profound transformation and a newfound commitment to follow Christ. However, the parable of the sower, as recounted in the Synoptic Gospels, provides a poignant illustration of the challenges that converts may face, particularly the danger of being "choked" by worldly concerns.Biblical Context The concept of being "choked" is vividly depicted in the Parable of the Sower, found in Matthew 13:1-23, Mark 4:1-20, and Luke 8:4-15. In this parable, Jesus describes a sower who scatters seed, which falls on different types of soil. The seed represents the Word of God, and the various soils symbolize the hearts of those who hear it. Among these, the seed that falls among thorns is of particular interest when discussing converts. In Mark 4:18-19 , Jesus explains: "Still others are like the seeds sown among the thorns. They hear the word, but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful." This passage highlights the spiritual peril that can beset converts, as the initial enthusiasm for the Gospel can be stifled by external pressures and internal desires. Spiritual Implications For converts, the metaphor of being "choked" serves as a cautionary tale. It underscores the reality that the Christian life is not immune to the distractions and temptations of the world. The "worries of this life" can include financial concerns, social pressures, and personal anxieties that divert attention from spiritual growth. The "deceitfulness of wealth" warns against the seductive allure of materialism, which can lead to a misplaced sense of security and purpose. Lastly, the "desires for other things" encompass a broad range of pursuits that can overshadow one's commitment to Christ. Practical Considerations To prevent the Word from being choked, converts are encouraged to cultivate a heart that is receptive and resilient. This involves regular engagement with Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. The community of faith plays a crucial role in providing support, accountability, and encouragement, helping converts to remain steadfast in their spiritual journey. Moreover, converts are urged to adopt a mindset of discernment, recognizing the transient nature of worldly pursuits and prioritizing eternal values. By seeking first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33), believers can align their lives with divine purposes and resist the encroachment of distractions. Conclusion The imagery of being "choked" serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges that converts may encounter. It calls for vigilance and intentionality in nurturing one's faith amidst the competing demands of life. By anchoring their identity and purpose in Christ, converts can overcome the thorns that threaten to stifle their spiritual growth and bear fruit that endures. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 13:7,22And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: Nave's Topical Index Greek 4846. sumpnigo -- to choke ... 4846 (from 4862 , "identified " and 4155 , "choke") -- properly, choke (cut off) -- literally, "choked because joined with.". 4846 ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4846.htm - 7k 536. aparche -- the beginning of a sacrifice, ie the first fruit 4156. pniktos -- strangled 638. apopnigo -- to choke 5040. teknion -- a little child Library Instructions to Converts. Instructions to Converts. Martin Converts a Robber to the Faith. The First Native Converts and Christian Schools God Undoubtedly Converts, Without the External Preaching of the ... Love of Preachers and their Converts. Choked Channels. A Little Child Converts an Infidel. A Little Boy Converts his Mother. Twenty-Sixth Day for the Holy Spirit on Young Converts Resources How can I detect a false conversion? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jesus rebuke the scribes and Pharisees so harshly in Matthew 23:13 36? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about eating/drinking blood? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Converts: At Pentecost, About Three-Thousand People Converts: Jews and Greeks at Antioch Converts: The Mariners With Jonah Converts: The Thief on the Cross Converts: Zealous: Nebuchadnezzar Converts: Zealous: The Blind Men Converts: Zealous: The Deaf Man Converts: Zealous: The Man Possessed by Demons Converts: Zealous: The Woman of Samaria Related Terms |
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