BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS Intro
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BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS
BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS
Lesson 1 Introduction
Lesson 1 Introduction
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:
For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 13:23
MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 13:23
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.
Welcome to Good Ground, a program designed to help anyone who wants to answer the call of the Great Commission of Christ (Matthew 28:18-20).
Welcome to Good Ground, a program designed to help anyone who wants to answer the call of the Great Commission of Christ (Matthew 28:18-20).
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Whether you are brand new to the faith, not even sure about this Christian thing, or been a believer for a long time, we are confident that you will enjoy and grow in our Foundations class.
Whether you are brand new to the faith, not even sure about this Christian thing, or been a believer for a long time, we are confident that you will enjoy and grow in our Foundations class.
Biblical Foundations is our fundamental building block in building strong believers who can impact their world and be an integral part in growing God’s Church. Who doesn’t want to do that? So let’s get right to it.
Biblical Foundations is our fundamental building block in building strong believers who can impact their world and be an integral part in growing God’s Church. Who doesn’t want to do that? So let’s get right to it.
Describe the four types of people from Jesus’ parable in Matthew 13:1-23.
Describe the four types of people from Jesus’ parable in Matthew 13:1-23.
Matthew 13:1–23 (KJV 1900)
The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side.
And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore.
And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;
And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:
Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:
And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.
And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:
But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.
Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?
He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.
Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.
And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:
For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.
For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.
Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.
When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.
But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.
The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side.
And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore.
And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;
And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:
Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:
And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.
And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:
But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.
Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?
He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.
Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.
And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:
For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.
For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.
Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.
When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.
But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.
A .v.Matt 13: 19
A .v.Matt 13: 19
Matthew 13:19 (KJV 1900)
When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.
B. v. Matt 13: 20-21
B. v. Matt 13: 20-21
But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
C. v.Matt 13: 22
C. v.Matt 13: 22
He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
D. v. Matt 13 :23
D. v. Matt 13 :23
Matthew 13:23 (KJV 1900)
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.
If you want to be like person #4, you’ve come to the right place!
If you want to be like person #4, you’ve come to the right place!
This program will equip you with everything you need to become a person who bears fruit for the kingdom of God.
This program will equip you with everything you need to become a person who bears fruit for the kingdom of God.
Let’s take a closer look at what that means.
Let’s take a closer look at what that means.
Matthew 28:18-20 is commonly called The Great Commission of Christ.
Matthew 28:18-20 is commonly called The Great Commission of Christ.
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
What do you learn from these words of Christ about what we are called to do as Christians?
What do you learn from these words of Christ about what we are called to do as Christians?
Jesus calls each and every believer to be active in going and making disciples of all nations.
Jesus calls each and every believer to be active in going and making disciples of all nations.
That includes me and you too.
That includes me and you too.
How it works
How it works
1 ;READ
1 ;READ
This program is pretty simple – It focuses on the scriptures with very little extra commentary.
This program is pretty simple – It focuses on the scriptures with very little extra commentary.
2 ;MEMORY VERSE:
2 ;MEMORY VERSE:
Committing scripture to memory is one of the most powerful tools you can add to your life.
Committing scripture to memory is one of the most powerful tools you can add to your life.
Jesus Himself committed scripture to memory and this was even His primary defense when attacked by The Adversary (Matthew 4:1-10).
Jesus Himself committed scripture to memory and this was even His primary defense when attacked by The Adversary (Matthew 4:1-10).
Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.
And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.
And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.
But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple,
And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.
Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.
Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;
And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.
Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.
Many people say they just can’t memorize scripture.
Many people say they just can’t memorize scripture.
This is obviously not true, because every single person can sing the words to a song they know from years ago from memory.
This is obviously not true, because every single person can sing the words to a song they know from years ago from memory.
So it’s more about HOW to memorize scripture.
So it’s more about HOW to memorize scripture.
There is a very simple method that works extremely well that we will use in Good Ground:
There is a very simple method that works extremely well that we will use in Good Ground:
Every day, with the Memory Verse in front of you, recite the verse out loud 7 times in the morning and 7 times in the evening, ending with the scripture reference.
Every day, with the Memory Verse in front of you, recite the verse out loud 7 times in the morning and 7 times in the evening, ending with the scripture reference.
Each day you read, try to recite more and more of the verse from memory.
Each day you read, try to recite more and more of the verse from memory.
If you do this every day, you will have the verse memorized by the end of the week.
If you do this every day, you will have the verse memorized by the end of the week.
This puts the verse into shorter term memory.
This puts the verse into shorter term memory.
From there, every week or so, go back over the verse a few times and make sure you can still remember it.
From there, every week or so, go back over the verse a few times and make sure you can still remember it.
This will store the verse in longer term memory for you to recall the rest of your life.
This will store the verse in longer term memory for you to recall the rest of your life.
If you have forgotten the verse, it will be simple to bring it back with a few times of simple practice.
If you have forgotten the verse, it will be simple to bring it back with a few times of simple practice.
Begin this week with our first Memory Verse, Matthew 13:23.
Begin this week with our first Memory Verse, Matthew 13:23.
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.
3 ;CONNECT
3 ;CONNECT
Don't just read and move on.
Don't just read and move on.
Let's get started.
Let's get started.
Use video Here
Use video Here
Now that we have gotten our feet wet a little bit, it’s time to lay the foundations of a strong disciple of Christ.
Now that we have gotten our feet wet a little bit, it’s time to lay the foundations of a strong disciple of Christ.
Regardless of how long you have been a Christian, we need to reinforce the basic elements of the faith so we can be that Good Ground that produces an increase.
Regardless of how long you have been a Christian, we need to reinforce the basic elements of the faith so we can be that Good Ground that produces an increase.
That’s what we will be doing this first semester, going over the Foundations of the faith.
That’s what we will be doing this first semester, going over the Foundations of the faith.
So get ready to be blown away by God’s Word!
So get ready to be blown away by God’s Word!
(Hebrews 6:1-3)
(Hebrews 6:1-3)
Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.
And this will we do, if God permit.
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
I wish to By way of INTRODUCTION Give us 4 POINTS that will be of great assistance to us all as we ebark on this Journey of BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS.
I wish to By way of INTRODUCTION Give us 4 POINTS that will be of great assistance to us all as we ebark on this Journey of BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS.
I] BUILDING
I] BUILDING
DESCRIPTION ;- WORD SPOKEN 4 TYPES OF HEARERS.----- Matt 13:1-23 WRITTEN WORD
DESCRIPTION ;- WORD SPOKEN 4 TYPES OF HEARERS.----- Matt 13:1-23 WRITTEN WORD
The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side.
And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore.
And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;
And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:
Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:
And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.
And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:
But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.
Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?
He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.
Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.
And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:
For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.
For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.
Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.
When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.
But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.
Which soil are you like? The Parable of the Sower explained
Which soil are you like? The Parable of the Sower explained
When Jesus spoke in parables, they were sometimes confusing and difficult to put into relatable terms.
When Jesus spoke in parables, they were sometimes confusing and difficult to put into relatable terms.
However, in the case of the Parable of the Sower (also known as the Parable of the Four Soils), understanding the meaning is easier!
However, in the case of the Parable of the Sower (also known as the Parable of the Four Soils), understanding the meaning is easier!
Jesus directly explained the meaning in the Gospels, so there’s no guessing as to what He meant.
Jesus directly explained the meaning in the Gospels, so there’s no guessing as to what He meant.
But still, how do we apply the Parable of the Four Soils to Christian life today?
But still, how do we apply the Parable of the Four Soils to Christian life today?
What type of soil are you?
What type of soil are you?
It’s in the self-assessment of these questions that have the opportunity to make transformative change in our lives.
It’s in the self-assessment of these questions that have the opportunity to make transformative change in our lives.
Let’s take a look.
Let’s take a look.
Table Of Contents
Table Of Contents
The Parable of the Sower summary
The Parable of the Sower summary
The Parable of the Sower Explained
The Parable of the Sower Explained
What is the main message of the Parable of the Sower in the Bible?
What is the main message of the Parable of the Sower in the Bible?
Parable of the Sower Scripture:
Parable of the Sower Scripture:
Parable of the Sower in the Bible Meaning
Parable of the Sower in the Bible Meaning
What are the 4 types of soil in the Parable of the Four Soils?
What are the 4 types of soil in the Parable of the Four Soils?
Which Parable of the Four Soils are you like?
Which Parable of the Four Soils are you like?
What does the seed represent in the Parable of the Soil (Parable of Four Soils)?
What does the seed represent in the Parable of the Soil (Parable of Four Soils)?
1. Seed that fell on the path
1. Seed that fell on the path
:2. Seed that fell on the rocky ground:
:2. Seed that fell on the rocky ground:
3. Seed that fell among thorns:
3. Seed that fell among thorns:
4. Seed that fell on good soil:
4. Seed that fell on good soil:
So, what kind of soil are you?
So, what kind of soil are you?
What if you’re not good soil?
What if you’re not good soil?
The Parable of the Sower summary
The Parable of the Sower summary
The Parable of the Sower summary is that a farmer went out to sow seeds.
The Parable of the Sower summary is that a farmer went out to sow seeds.
The seeds were scattered in different places: on a path, on rocky ground, among thorns, and in good soil.
The seeds were scattered in different places: on a path, on rocky ground, among thorns, and in good soil.
The conditions under which the seeds fell determined whether they grew and how lasting and fruitful their growth was.
The conditions under which the seeds fell determined whether they grew and how lasting and fruitful their growth was.
The Parable of the Sower Explained
The Parable of the Sower Explained
Jesus used the Parable of the Sower (Parable of the Four Soils) to teach people that there are different ways we can approach spiritual growth, but there is only one way that will produce fruitful growth to a true, beautiful, and lasting spiritual journey with God.
Jesus used the Parable of the Sower (Parable of the Four Soils) to teach people that there are different ways we can approach spiritual growth, but there is only one way that will produce fruitful growth to a true, beautiful, and lasting spiritual journey with God.
That is, planting the seed in good, fertile soil and then nurturing it with water, sunshine, and nutrients.
What is the main message of the Parable of the Sower in the Bible?
That is, planting the seed in good, fertile soil and then nurturing it with water, sunshine, and nutrients.
What is the main message of the Parable of the Sower in the Bible?
The main message of the Parable of the Sower is that unless we nurture our relationship with God (the good soil), we won’t grow into the faithful Christians He calls us to be.
The main message of the Parable of the Sower is that unless we nurture our relationship with God (the good soil), we won’t grow into the faithful Christians He calls us to be.
When we feed our faith through God’s Word and by seeking Him in earnest, our hearts and lives overflow with the abundance of God’s grace.
When we feed our faith through God’s Word and by seeking Him in earnest, our hearts and lives overflow with the abundance of God’s grace.
Parable of the Sower Scripture:
Parable of the Sower Scripture:
The Parable of the Sower in the Bible is included in three Gospels,
The Parable of the Sower in the Bible is included in three Gospels,
Matt 13:1-23, Mark 4:1-20, and Luke 8:1-15.
Matt 13:1-23, Mark 4:1-20, and Luke 8:1-15.
The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side.
And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore.
And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;
And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:
Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:
And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.
And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:
But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.
Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?
He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.
Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.
And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:
For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.
For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.
Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.
When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.
But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.
Mark 4:1–20 (KJV 1900)
And he began again to teach by the sea side: and there was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land.
And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine,
Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow:
And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up.
And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth:
But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away.
And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit.
And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred.
And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable.
And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:
That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.
And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables?
The sower soweth the word.
And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.
And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness;
And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended.
And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word,
And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.
And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.
Luke 8:1–15 (KJV 1900)
And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him,
And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils,
And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.
And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable:
A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it.
And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture.
And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it.
And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be?
And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.
Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.
Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.
They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.
And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.
But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
Here’s Matthew’s version (Matthew 13:3-9 ):
Here’s Matthew’s version (Matthew 13:3-9 ):
Parable of the Sower in the Bible Meaning
Parable of the Sower in the Bible Meaning
And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;
And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:
Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:
And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.
And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:
But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.
Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
It might be confusing to understand how the Parable of the Sower relates to life as a Christian today, but Jesus actually explained the meaning in
It might be confusing to understand how the Parable of the Sower relates to life as a Christian today, but Jesus actually explained the meaning in
Matt 13:18-23 , Mark 4:13-20 , and Luke 8:11-15 .
Matt 13:18-23 , Mark 4:13-20 , and Luke 8:11-15 .
Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.
When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.
But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.
And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables?
The sower soweth the word.
And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.
And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness;
And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended.
And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word,
And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.
And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.
Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.
Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.
They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.
And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.
But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
What are the 4 types of soil in the Parable of the Four Soils?
What are the 4 types of soil in the Parable of the Four Soils?
The four types of soil in the Parable of the Sower aren’t technically all soil.
The four types of soil in the Parable of the Sower aren’t technically all soil.
The seed the farmer scattered fell onto four different surfaces.
The seed the farmer scattered fell onto four different surfaces.
They are: the path (no soil), rocky ground (little soil), among thorns, and good soil.
They are: the path (no soil), rocky ground (little soil), among thorns, and good soil.
What soil each of these represents as well as their growth, or lack of growth, are covered below.
What soil each of these represents as well as their growth, or lack of growth, are covered below.
It’s in these explanations that we can see where our seed lies in our personal spiritual journey.
It’s in these explanations that we can see where our seed lies in our personal spiritual journey.
Which Parable of the Four Soils are you like?
Which Parable of the Four Soils are you like?
Jesus described what the Parable of the Four Soils means, but let’s take it a step further and put each type of soil into the context of today’s living.
Jesus described what the Parable of the Four Soils means, but let’s take it a step further and put each type of soil into the context of today’s living.
Where do you stand?
Where do you stand?
Which of the soils best describes you?
Which of the soils best describes you?
What does the seed represent in the Parable of the Soil (Parable of Four Soils)?
What does the seed represent in the Parable of the Soil (Parable of Four Soils)?
For starters, the seed represents the Word of God.
For starters, the seed represents the Word of God.
What type of soil is in our hearts will determine whether the seed of God’s Word, love, and grace will flourish within us or not.
What type of soil is in our hearts will determine whether the seed of God’s Word, love, and grace will flourish within us or not.
1. Seed that fell on the path:
1. Seed that fell on the path:
The Seed that fell on the path is like God’s Word that falls on deaf ears – either because it isn’t understood or there is no effort to understand.
The Seed that fell on the path is like God’s Word that falls on deaf ears – either because it isn’t understood or there is no effort to understand.
The message never gets absorbed before it’s snatched away by the evil one.
The message never gets absorbed before it’s snatched away by the evil one.
Is your faith falling on the path?
Is your faith falling on the path?
(Signs that your faith may be falling on the path are in BOLD)
(Signs that your faith may be falling on the path are in BOLD)
Do you pray from your heart or do you recite prayers from memory while your thoughts wander?
Do you pray from your heart or do you recite prayers from memory while your thoughts wander?
Do you read the Bible?
Do you read the Bible?
Do you reflect, learn, and grow from reading or does it feel empty?
Do you reflect, learn, and grow from reading or does it feel empty?
Is Jesus your regular companion or do you think about Him or pray weekly, or less?
Is Jesus your regular companion or do you think about Him or pray weekly, or less?
2. Seed that fell on the rocky ground:
2. Seed that fell on the rocky ground:
The Seed that fell on the rocky ground is like getting excited about your New Year’s resolution to lose weight, exercise, or stop smoking.
The Seed that fell on the rocky ground is like getting excited about your New Year’s resolution to lose weight, exercise, or stop smoking.
You start off the beginning of the year with great enthusiasm but before long, it’s become a chore and it’s easier to forget the resolution and keep doing what you were doing last year.
You start off the beginning of the year with great enthusiasm but before long, it’s become a chore and it’s easier to forget the resolution and keep doing what you were doing last year.
Is your faith falling on rocky ground?
Is your faith falling on rocky ground?
(Signs that your faith may be falling on rocky ground are in BOLD)
(Signs that your faith may be falling on rocky ground are in BOLD)
Do you make time for God in your busy schedule or do you give God time only if you have any left?
Do you make time for God in your busy schedule or do you give God time only if you have any left?
Does your faith stand up to challenges and criticisms or does it crumble when tested by troubles or doubts?
Does your faith stand up to challenges and criticisms or does it crumble when tested by troubles or doubts?
Do you go “all-in” for Jesus, then go for long periods where he’s hardly a thought?
Do you go “all-in” for Jesus, then go for long periods where he’s hardly a thought?
3. Seed that fell among thorns:
3. Seed that fell among thorns:
The Seed that fell among thorns is like wanting something very badly, but letting other things keep getting in the way of accomplishing it.
The Seed that fell among thorns is like wanting something very badly, but letting other things keep getting in the way of accomplishing it.
For example, wanting to spend more quality time with your children, but choosing to go spend time with your coworkers instead.
For example, wanting to spend more quality time with your children, but choosing to go spend time with your coworkers instead.
Is your faith being choked out by thorns?
Is your faith being choked out by thorns?
(Signs that your faith may be choking on thorns are in BOLD)
(Signs that your faith may be choking on thorns are in BOLD)
Do you take an honest look at your faith and strive to grow closer to God or are you satisfied with your current relationship with Him?
Do you take an honest look at your faith and strive to grow closer to God or are you satisfied with your current relationship with Him?
Do you strive to lead God’s will for your life or do you get drawn away by worldly goals, like wealth, outward beauty, or status?
Do you strive to lead God’s will for your life or do you get drawn away by worldly goals, like wealth, outward beauty, or status?
Do you work on building your trust in God or do you get consumed by worldly worries?
Do you work on building your trust in God or do you get consumed by worldly worries?
4. Seed that fell on good soil:
4. Seed that fell on good soil:
The Seed that fell on good soil is like seeking Jesus with all your heart as He asked us:
The Seed that fell on good soil is like seeking Jesus with all your heart as He asked us:
You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13
You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13
Good soil makes Jesus a priority.
Good soil makes Jesus a priority.
It means making time for Him, rather than trying to squeeze Him into your busy schedule.
It means making time for Him, rather than trying to squeeze Him into your busy schedule.
It means pursuing a personal relationship with Him as you would pursue a relationship with a love interest – getting to know Him, speaking to Him often, trusting Him, making time for Him, and treating Him with love, kindness, and respect.
It means pursuing a personal relationship with Him as you would pursue a relationship with a love interest – getting to know Him, speaking to Him often, trusting Him, making time for Him, and treating Him with love, kindness, and respect.
Seeking Jesus is an insatiable longing.
Seeking Jesus is an insatiable longing.
The closer you get, the more you want to get even closer.
The closer you get, the more you want to get even closer.
This relationship spills over into the person you are, the way you treat others, and the way you live your life.
This relationship spills over into the person you are, the way you treat others, and the way you live your life.
Is your faith falling on good soil?
Is your faith falling on good soil?
Signs that your faith is falling on good soil are in BOLD. This time, BOLD is good!)
Is God’s will the highest priority in your life?
Signs that your faith is falling on good soil are in BOLD. This time, BOLD is good!)
Is God’s will the highest priority in your life?
Is Jesus a regular part of your day, in your thoughts, prayers, actions?
Is Jesus a regular part of your day, in your thoughts, prayers, actions?
Do you want to learn more, do more, and be more for Jesus?
Do you want to learn more, do more, and be more for Jesus?
Does your heart swell with Jesus and does it spill over into every aspect of your life?
Does your heart swell with Jesus and does it spill over into every aspect of your life?
So, what kind of soil are you?
So, what kind of soil are you?
The examples above are only to give you food for thought.
The examples above are only to give you food for thought.
Take some time to make an honest assessment.
Take some time to make an honest assessment.
No one has to know your answers – and God already knows anyway!
No one has to know your answers – and God already knows anyway!
What if you’re not good soil?
What if you’re not good soil?
So, what if you’re not the type of soil you want to be?
So, what if you’re not the type of soil you want to be?
Use this as an opportunity to grow! Make an effort to Seek Jesus and find more ways to Fit Jesus into Your Busy Schedule.
Use this as an opportunity to grow! Make an effort to Seek Jesus and find more ways to Fit Jesus into Your Busy Schedule.
God’s forgiveness is only a whisper away.
God’s forgiveness is only a whisper away.
He wants us to turn to Him and He’s ready and willing to shower us with grace and welcome us with open arms.
He wants us to turn to Him and He’s ready and willing to shower us with grace and welcome us with open arms.
If you’re not where you want to be spiritually, today is a fresh start to plant your seeds in good soil so you can strengthen your relationship with Jesus as God wants you to do.
If you’re not where you want to be spiritually, today is a fresh start to plant your seeds in good soil so you can strengthen your relationship with Jesus as God wants you to do.
This is also known as God’s Will – when you align your thoughts, words, and deeds to God’s Word.
This is also known as God’s Will – when you align your thoughts, words, and deeds to God’s Word.
II] ROCK ;-
II] ROCK ;-
DECLARATION ----- 1 Corinthians 3:11 LIVING WORD
DECLARATION ----- 1 Corinthians 3:11 LIVING WORD
For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
There is only one foundation for the christian that is jesus Christ the Living Word
There is only one foundation for the christian that is jesus Christ the Living Word
III] DOOR ;-
III] DOOR ;-
DESIRE--------REV 3:20 DOOR OPEN
DESIRE--------REV 3:20 DOOR OPEN
Revelation 3:20 (KJV 1900)
Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
We must open the door for jesus to come to taech us his will through His almighty Word
We must open the door for jesus to come to taech us his will through His almighty Word
IV] ZACCHEUS IN TREE
IV] ZACCHEUS IN TREE
DETERMINATION---- Luke 19:1-4 TO SEE JESUS
DETERMINATION---- Luke 19:1-4 TO SEE JESUS
Luke 19:1–4 (KJV 1900)
And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho.
And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.
And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.
And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way.
The Bible compares the life of a believer to the construction of a building:
The Bible compares the life of a believer to the construction of a building:
...Ye are God's building... (I Corinthians 3:9)
...Ye are God's building... (I Corinthians 3:9)
1 Corinthians 3:9 (KJV 1900)
For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.
Each believer is united in Christ with other Christians to form the Church.
Each believer is united in Christ with other Christians to form the Church.
The Bible also compares the Church to a building:
The Bible also compares the Church to a building:
(Ephesians 2:22)
(Ephesians 2:22)
Ephesians 2:22 (KJV 1900)
In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
Whenever men erect a building they must first lay a proper foundation.
Whenever men erect a building they must first lay a proper foundation.
Since this is a natural principle understood by all people, God used it to teach a great spiritual truth.
Since this is a natural principle understood by all people, God used it to teach a great spiritual truth.
A believer must have a proper foundation in order to build a good spiritual house.
A believer must have a proper foundation in order to build a good spiritual house.
The foundation must be laid according to the builder's plan.
The foundation must be laid according to the builder's plan.
The Bible gives the plan of the master builder, Jesus Christ.
The Bible gives the plan of the master builder, Jesus Christ.
This chapter explains the importance of having a proper spiritual foundation.
This chapter explains the importance of having a proper spiritual foundation.
It also presents basic principles the Bible teaches about this foundation.
It also presents basic principles the Bible teaches about this foundation.
THE PURPOSE OF BUILDING
The purpose of your spiritual "building" is to provide a habitation [a dwelling place] for God.
THE PURPOSE OF BUILDING
The purpose of your spiritual "building" is to provide a habitation [a dwelling place] for God.
His Spirit will dwell in you only when your life is built on the right foundation. Paul asked:
(I Corinthians 3:16)
His Spirit will dwell in you only when your life is built on the right foundation. Paul asked:
(I Corinthians 3:16)
Because of this you are cautioned to build your spiritual life properly:
Because of this you are cautioned to build your spiritual life properly:
( 1 Corinthians 3:10-11 )
( 1 Corinthians 3:10-11 )
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.
For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
A. THE FOUNDATION
A. THE FOUNDATION
The spiritual foundation of which the Word of God speaks:
The spiritual foundation of which the Word of God speaks:
B> IS BASED ON GOD'S WORD:
B> IS BASED ON GOD'S WORD:
. (II Timothy 2:19, )
. (II Timothy 2:19, )
Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
C> IS A GOOD FOUNDATION
C> IS A GOOD FOUNDATION
(I Timothy 6:19) IS BASED ON RIGHTEOUSNESS:
(I Timothy 6:19) IS BASED ON RIGHTEOUSNESS:
1 Timothy 6:19 (KJV 1900)
Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
(Proverbs 10:25, )
(Proverbs 10:25, )
Proverbs 10:25 (KJV 1900)
As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more: But the righteous is an everlasting foundation.
D> IS ETERNAL:
D> IS ETERNAL:
. (I Timothy 6:19, )
. (I Timothy 6:19, )
1 Timothy 6:19 (KJV 1900)
Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
E> RESTS ON TWO BASIC PRINCIPLES:
E> RESTS ON TWO BASIC PRINCIPLES:
: . (II Timothy 2:19, )
: . (II Timothy 2:19, )
2 Timothy 2:19 (KJV 1900)
Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
The two principles upon which the foundation stands are:
The two principles upon which the foundation stands are:
1. Redeemed men: The Lord knows those who are His.
1. Redeemed men: The Lord knows those who are His.
2. Living redeemed lives: Let everyone who names himself by the name of the
Lord give up all iniquity and stand aloof from it.
2. Living redeemed lives: Let everyone who names himself by the name of the
Lord give up all iniquity and stand aloof from it.
F> IS BUILT UPON A ROCK WHICH IS IMMOVABLE:
. (Luke 6:48)
F> IS BUILT UPON A ROCK WHICH IS IMMOVABLE:
. (Luke 6:48)
Luke 6:48 (KJV 1900)
He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.
G> THAT ROCK IS JESUS CHRIST:
. (Isaiah 44:8,)
Jesus Christ is the only foundation for spiritual life:
(I Corinthians 3:11)
G> THAT ROCK IS JESUS CHRIST:
. (Isaiah 44:8,)
Jesus Christ is the only foundation for spiritual life:
(I Corinthians 3:11)
1 Corinthians 3:11 (KJV 1900)
For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Fear ye not, neither be afraid: Have not I told thee from that time, And have declared it? ye are even my witnesses. Is there a God beside me? Yea, there is no God; I know not any.
JESUS: THE FOUNDATION
JESUS: THE FOUNDATION
God is the one who chose Jesus Christ as the foundation for spiritual life:
God is the one who chose Jesus Christ as the foundation for spiritual life:
(Isaiah 28:16)
(Isaiah 28:16)
Isaiah 28:16 (KJV 1900)
Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, A tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: He that believeth shall not make haste.
The foundation of spiritual life is not a man-made creed, a denomination, or a religious ceremony. The foundation is Jesus Christ.
The foundation of spiritual life is not a man-made creed, a denomination, or a religious ceremony. The foundation is Jesus Christ.
Many professing believers try to build great spiritual structures of Christianity in their lives.
Many professing believers try to build great spiritual structures of Christianity in their lives.
Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, A tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: He that believeth shall not make haste.
They become involved in the program of the church and do many good works.
They become involved in the program of the church and do many good works.
The outward appearance of their spiritual building is good.
The outward appearance of their spiritual building is good.
But before long their spiritual building begins to sink and collapse.
But before long their spiritual building begins to sink and collapse.
They become discouraged, defeated, and fall into sin.
They become discouraged, defeated, and fall into sin.
This is because they are trying to build on the wrong foundation.
This is because they are trying to build on the wrong foundation.
2 Timothy 2:19 (KJV 1900)
Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
Just as a good foundation is necessary to properly support a building in the natural world, the right spiritual foundation is necessary to support the building of your spiritual life:
(I Corinthians 3:11-13)
Just as a good foundation is necessary to properly support a building in the natural world, the right spiritual foundation is necessary to support the building of your spiritual life:
(I Corinthians 3:11-13)
All so called "Christian" works will be tested by God.
All so called "Christian" works will be tested by God.
1 Corinthians 3:11–13 (KJV 1900)
For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;
Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.
The structure of your spiritual life will be examined to determine if it is built on the proper foundation.
The structure of your spiritual life will be examined to determine if it is built on the proper foundation.
The only foundation of spiritual life which will stand is that which is built on Jesus Christ.
The only foundation of spiritual life which will stand is that which is built on Jesus Christ.
THE IMPORTANCE OF FOUNDATIONS
THE IMPORTANCE OF FOUNDATIONS
Foundations are very important.
Foundations are very important.
The writer of Psalms realized this when he asked:
The writer of Psalms realized this when he asked:
(Psalms 11:3)
(Psalms 11:3)
Psalm 11:3 (KJV 1900)
If the foundations be destroyed, What can the righteous do?
In the natural world if the foundation of a building is not properly laid the whole structure can collapse.
In the natural world if the foundation of a building is not properly laid the whole structure can collapse.
The same is true in the spiritual world. A wrong foundation will result in spiritual disaster.
The same is true in the spiritual world. A wrong foundation will result in spiritual disaster.
The Biblical record of Haggai stresses the importance of proper spiritual foundations.
The Biblical record of Haggai stresses the importance of proper spiritual foundations.
Israel was experiencing poor harvests in the natural world. Haggai told them to examine their ways:
Israel was experiencing poor harvests in the natural world. Haggai told them to examine their ways:
. (Haggai 1:6,7,9)
. (Haggai 1:6,7,9)
Haggai 1:6 (KJV 1900)
Ye have sown much, and bring in little; Ye eat, but ye have not enough; Ye drink, but ye are not filled with drink; Ye clothe you, but there is none warm; And he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes.
Haggai 1:7 (KJV 1900)
Thus saith the Lord of hosts; Consider your ways.
Haggai 1:9 (KJV 1900)
Ye looked for much, and, lo, it came to little; And when ye brought it home, I did blow upon it. Why? saith the Lord of hosts. Because of mine house that is waste, And ye run every man unto his own house.
To correct the problem, Haggai told Israel they must rebuild both in the natural and spiritual worlds.
To correct the problem, Haggai told Israel they must rebuild both in the natural and spiritual worlds.
Rebuilding in the natural world was necessary for Israel because they had delayed building the house of the Lord.
Rebuilding in the natural world was necessary for Israel because they had delayed building the house of the Lord.
They had built their own homes and put their own concerns ahead of God's command to rebuild the temple.
They had built their own homes and put their own concerns ahead of God's command to rebuild the temple.
But more important, the spiritual foundation of their lives was wrong.
But more important, the spiritual foundation of their lives was wrong.
They had been offering sacrifices [good works] with unholy hands:
They had been offering sacrifices [good works] with unholy hands:
. (Haggai 2:14,)
. (Haggai 2:14,)
Then answered Haggai, and said, So is this people, and so is this nation before me, saith the Lord; And so is every work of their hands; And that which they offer there is unclean.
A right work offered by unholy hands is not acceptable.
A right work offered by unholy hands is not acceptable.
The spiritual foundation of their lives was wrong and this is why they were not blessed by God.
The spiritual foundation of their lives was wrong and this is why they were not blessed by God.
In the natural world Haggai told God's people that the foundation of the Lord's temple must be rebuilt.
In the natural world Haggai told God's people that the foundation of the Lord's temple must be rebuilt.
He said they must also rebuild their spiritual lives on a proper foundation.
He said they must also rebuild their spiritual lives on a proper foundation.
From the day that Israel started to build on the right foundation God began to bless them:
From the day that Israel started to build on the right foundation God began to bless them:
(Haggai 2:18-19, )
(Haggai 2:18-19, )
Haggai 2:18–19 (KJV 1900)
Consider now from this day and upward, From the four and twentieth day of the ninth month, Even from the day that the foundation of the Lord’s temple was laid, consider it.
Is the seed yet in the barn? Yea, as yet the vine, and the fig tree, and the pomegranate, and the olive tree, hath not brought forth: From this day will I bless you.
From the day you start to build proper spiritual foundations, God will bless you in every area of your life.
From the day you start to build proper spiritual foundations, God will bless you in every area of your life.
THE DOCTRINE OF JESUS
THE DOCTRINE OF JESUS
Jesus stressed the need for building on a good spiritual foundation.
Jesus stressed the need for building on a good spiritual foundation.
He illustrated this truth by a parable of two men who built houses.
He illustrated this truth by a parable of two men who built houses.
The Bible has two records of this parable. One is in Matthew 7:24-29 and the other is in Luke 6:47-49.
The Bible has two records of this parable. One is in Matthew 7:24-29 and the other is in Luke 6:47-49.
Matthew 7:24–29 (KJV 1900)
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:
For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:
He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.
But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.
Luke Matthew
Luke Matthew
Luke Matthew
Luke Matthew
But he that heareth and doeth And everyone that heareth these sayings of mine not, is like a man that without and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish a foundation built an house man, which built his house upon the sand;
But he that heareth and doeth And everyone that heareth these sayings of mine not, is like a man that without and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish a foundation built an house man, which built his house upon the sand;
upon the earth; against which the And the rain descended and the floods came, and stream did beat vehemently and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it immediately it fell and the ruin fell; and great was the fall of it.
upon the earth; against which the And the rain descended and the floods came, and stream did beat vehemently and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it immediately it fell and the ruin fell; and great was the fall of it.
of that house was great. (Luke 6:47-49)
of that house was great. (Luke 6:47-49)
Luke 6:47–49 (KJV 1900)
Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:
He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.
But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.
And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine. (Matthew 7:24-29)
And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine. (Matthew 7:24-29)
Matthew 7:24–29 (KJV 1900)
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:
For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
There are several important principles in these passages:
There are several important principles in these passages:
1. DOCTRINE:
1. DOCTRINE:
The first principle is that building a proper spiritual foundation is part of the doctrine [teachings] of Jesus.
The first principle is that building a proper spiritual foundation is part of the doctrine [teachings] of Jesus.
This passage records that the people were "astonished at His doctrine.”
This passage records that the people were "astonished at His doctrine.”
Part of that doctrine was the story He told about building on a good foundation.
Part of that doctrine was the story He told about building on a good foundation.
Paul also refers to building a foundation as part of the doctrine of Christ:
Paul also refers to building a foundation as part of the doctrine of Christ:
.(Hebrews 6:1)
.(Hebrews 6:1)
Hebrews 6:1 (KJV 1900)
Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
Paul then continues to list the content of the doctrine of Jesus.
Paul then continues to list the content of the doctrine of Jesus.
2. THE RIGHT FOUNDATION:
2. THE RIGHT FOUNDATION:
The steps for building a good spiritual foundation are given in Luke 6:47:
The steps for building a good spiritual foundation are given in Luke 6:47:
Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:
1. Whosoever cometh to me............ COME
1. Whosoever cometh to me............ COME
2. Heareth my sayings.......................HEAR
2. Heareth my sayings.......................HEAR
3. And doeth them.............................DO
3. And doeth them.............................DO
All three steps are required.
All three steps are required.
Luke 6:47 (KJV 1900)
Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:
It is not enough to come to Jesus.
It is not enough to come to Jesus.
You must also listen to what He has said.
You must also listen to what He has said.
But coming and listening are not enough.
But coming and listening are not enough.
You must also take personal action.
You must also take personal action.
A person can come to Jesus, hear what He has to say, but not respond:
A person can come to Jesus, hear what He has to say, but not respond:
(Luke 6:46)
(Luke 6:46)
Luke 6:46 (KJV 1900)
And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?
You can know the Word and still not act upon it.
You can know the Word and still not act upon it.
Jesus is not truly Lord of your life until you respond to His teachings.
Jesus is not truly Lord of your life until you respond to His teachings.
A good foundation is based on the Word of God.
A good foundation is based on the Word of God.
The man who came to Jesus, heard His Word, and then acted on it is called wise.
The man who came to Jesus, heard His Word, and then acted on it is called wise.
This man made sure the spiritual foundation of His life was firm.
This man made sure the spiritual foundation of His life was firm.
He "digged deep" removing everything between him and the Rock, Jesus Christ.
He "digged deep" removing everything between him and the Rock, Jesus Christ.
God's Word is the plan which shows how to build your spiritual life.
God's Word is the plan which shows how to build your spiritual life.
The Bible must be accepted as the absolute authority and the plan for your spiritual foundation because...
The Bible must be accepted as the absolute authority and the plan for your spiritual foundation because...
.. (II Peter 1:21)
.. (II Peter 1:21)
2 Peter 1:21 (KJV 1900)
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
The purpose of God's revelation is given in II Timothy 3:16:
The purpose of God's revelation is given in II Timothy 3:16:
(II Timothy 3:16)
(II Timothy 3:16)
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
The Bible contains instruction in the basic doctrines of Jesus.
The Bible contains instruction in the basic doctrines of Jesus.
2 Peter 1:21 (KJV 1900)
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV 1900)
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV 1900)
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
It also provides reproof and correction for failing to follow these teachings.
It also provides reproof and correction for failing to follow these teachings.
3. THE WRONG FOUNDATION:
3. THE WRONG FOUNDATION:
The man who built on a wrong foundation heard the Word of God but did not take personal action on what he heard.
The man who built on a wrong foundation heard the Word of God but did not take personal action on what he heard.
He is called a foolish man and compared to a man who built without a foundation (Luke 6:49).
He is called a foolish man and compared to a man who built without a foundation (Luke 6:49).
Luke 6:49 (KJV 1900)
But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.
His house was built on the sand instead of the rock (Matthew 7:27).
His house was built on the sand instead of the rock (Matthew 7:27).
Matthew 7:27 (KJV 1900)
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
You build on the sand spiritually when you base your life on the traditions or religious beliefs of man.
You build on the sand spiritually when you base your life on the traditions or religious beliefs of man.
It is thinking you can make yourself spiritual by good works, church attendance, or religious ceremonies.
It is thinking you can make yourself spiritual by good works, church attendance, or religious ceremonies.
4. THE STORMS OF LIFE:
4. THE STORMS OF LIFE:
Jesus' story of the two builders reveals another great truth.
Jesus' story of the two builders reveals another great truth.
It is the nature of life to be stormy.
It is the nature of life to be stormy.
Circumstances of life result in many personal crises.
Circumstances of life result in many personal crises.
You must face death, disease, and disaster.
You must face death, disease, and disaster.
Even believers will face problems.
Even believers will face problems.
Acts 14:22 warns that "we must through much tribulation enter into the Kingdom of God."
Acts 14:22 warns that "we must through much tribulation enter into the Kingdom of God."
Acts 14:22 (KJV 1900)
Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.
Jesus said:
(John 16:33)
Jesus said:
(John 16:33)
John 16:33 (KJV 1900)
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
No one escapes the storms.
No one escapes the storms.
Stormy circumstances of life are experienced by all people everywhere.
Stormy circumstances of life are experienced by all people everywhere.
The storms are the same, but what differs is how people respond to them.
The storms are the same, but what differs is how people respond to them.
If your spiritual life does not have the right foundation you will fall.
If your spiritual life does not have the right foundation you will fall.
Just as the house built on sand, the fall will be great.
Just as the house built on sand, the fall will be great.
If your life is built on the right foundation of Jesus Christ and His Word [doctrine], the storm cannot shake you:
If your life is built on the right foundation of Jesus Christ and His Word [doctrine], the storm cannot shake you:
(Hebrews 12:26-27)
(Hebrews 12:26-27)
Hebrews 12:26–27 (KJV 1900)
Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven.
And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.
When the shaking experience comes, that which cannot be shaken will remain.
When the shaking experience comes, that which cannot be shaken will remain.
Those who stand have built a right spiritual foundation.
Those who stand have built a right spiritual foundation.
FOUNDATIONS: A PREREQUISITE
FOUNDATIONS: A PREREQUISITE
A good foundation is a prerequisite for constructing a sound building in the natural world.
A good foundation is a prerequisite for constructing a sound building in the natural world.
The word "prerequisite" means that it is "required before.”
The word "prerequisite" means that it is "required before.”
A proper foundation is required before constructing the "superstructure.”
A proper foundation is required before constructing the "superstructure.”
The "superstructure" is that which is built on the foundation.
The "superstructure" is that which is built on the foundation.
A proper spiritual foundation is a prerequisite to spiritual maturity.
A proper spiritual foundation is a prerequisite to spiritual maturity.
In Hebrews 6:1-3 we are told we cannot go on to perfection unless the spiritual foundation is properly laid.
In Hebrews 6:1-3 we are told we cannot go on to perfection unless the spiritual foundation is properly laid.
Hebrews 6:1–3 (KJV 1900)
Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.
And this will we do, if God permit.
Spiritual maturity is the superstructure [the building] which rests on the spiritual foundation.
Spiritual maturity is the superstructure [the building] which rests on the spiritual foundation.
If the foundation is wrong then the superstructure will not stand and you will never achieve spiritual maturity.
If the foundation is wrong then the superstructure will not stand and you will never achieve spiritual maturity.
The following lessons explain things which must be part of your spiritual foundation.
The following lessons explain things which must be part of your spiritual foundation.
But as the parable of the two houses indicates, it is not enough to be informed of these basic doctrines.
But as the parable of the two houses indicates, it is not enough to be informed of these basic doctrines.
You must make a personal response to God's Word and integrate these truths into the spiritual foundation of your life.
You must make a personal response to God's Word and integrate these truths into the spiritual foundation of your life.
If you do not respond to God's Word, you are like the man described by the Apostle James:
(James 1:22-25)
If you do not respond to God's Word, you are like the man described by the Apostle James:
(James 1:22-25)
James 1:22–25 (KJV 1900)
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
Remember that from the moment you decide to start building your spiritual life on the proper foundation, God will bless you.
Remember that from the moment you decide to start building your spiritual life on the proper foundation, God will bless you.