Welcome to week 24 of Weekly Word!
We’re excited to delve into the parables of Jesus together! Can you imagine sitting at the feet of Jesus and just learning from Him? Over the next several weeks, we will do just that.
Below, you’ll find your readings for this week, along with discussion questions and a short devotional for you to enjoy at the end of the week.
Readings:
- Matthew 13:1–9, 18–23
- Mark 4:1–9, 13–20
- Luke 8:4–8, 11–15
- Ruth 1
Devotional:
Readings: *See above
In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus teaches on the varied conditions of the human heart through the imagery of soil. Some hearts are like a hardened path where the truth is instantly snatched away, while others are shallow and rocky or choked out entirely by life’s daily anxieties or doubt that the enemy stirs up.
The good soil represents a heart that hears the Word, responds in faith, and firmly holds onto it through every circumstance. Cultivating good soil requires a lifelong commitment to letting God tend the garden of our hearts. When we remain deeply rooted in His truth, our lives will bear an abundant, life-giving harvest of spiritual fruit!
Discussion Questions:
- If you were to honestly examine the soil of your heart right now, would you describe it as hardened, rocky, thorny, or rich and receptive? Why?
- In Ruth 1, Ruth makes a quiet, determined choice to stick by her grieving mother-in-law and follow the God of Israel—a seemingly small, hidden decision by an outsider that God eventually used to pave the family line for King David and Jesus. What daily acts of faithfulness can God use profoundly in your life this week?
Dig Deeper
Everyone has an opportunity to respond to the message of the Good News of Jesus Christ. In this sermon from Antioch’s 2023 sermon series, “Parables,” Pastor Andy teaches on the parable of the sower.
We are praying for you as you dig into God’s Word this week!