Different Responses to the Preached Word

Most respond negatively to the preached word in three ways:

1. They don’t understand it and thus allow the devil to rob their memory and blind them from what they heard (Matthew 13:19; 2 Cor. 4:3-4).

2. They have “no root” (spiritually shallow) and thus abandon the faith when persecution and tribulation come (Matthews. 13:21; 2 Timothy. 3:11-12).

3. They are “unfruitful” because “the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word” (Matthew 13:22). These people have a false sense of self-sufficiency, self-security, and well-being.

Very few (1/4) respond positively by hearing the word, and understanding it (Matthew 13:22).

The negative responses are described in

2 Timothy. 4:2-4. However, regardless of how people respond, true believers must not be ashamed of the gospel. As Paul wrote, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile (Romans.1.16). 🙏🏾

Blessings!