The Parable of the Soils Luke 8:4-15
Blake on Alleluia Ranch (Vacation Bible School set)
“Parable” “para” (beside) + “ballo” (to throw) Definition: A hypothetical story from everyday life “thrown beside” an abstract spiritual truth Why: –Illustrates something complex –Aids in memory –Illuminates truth for believers AND conceals truth for unbelievers
Interpretive Keys 1.Identify the driving issue 2.Historical background helps New Bible Dictionary by Wood and Marshall The IVP Bible Background Commentary by Keener
Interpretive Keys 1.Identify the driving issue 2.Historical background helps 3.Look for clues in the context 4.Check against clearer scripture
The Four Major Elements Sower= Seed = Soils= Fruit = ??? the Word of God various responses people have to the Word the outward product of our lives that glorifies God
Driving Question “Why does the same message bear incredible fruit in some lives and not in others?” …or… “What obstacles prevent growth of spiritual fruit in a person’s life?”
Soil #1 Parable – v5 Explanation – v12 Description: Impenetrable Obstacle: Active opposition of Satan to blind the minds of unbelievers Parable – v5 Explanation – v12 Description: Impenetrable Obstacle: Active opposition of Satan to blind the minds of unbelievers
Soil #2 Parable – v6 Explanation – v13 Description: Shallow Obstacle: No perseverance because the Word has not sunk in deeply Parable – v6 Explanation – v13 Description: Shallow Obstacle: No perseverance because the Word has not sunk in deeply
Soil #2 Rom 5:1-2 “Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand…”
Soil #3 Parable – v7 Explanation – v14 Description: Crowded Obstacle: The Word is choked out by worldly worries, riches, and pleasures Parable – v7 Explanation – v14 Description: Crowded Obstacle: The Word is choked out by worldly worries, riches, and pleasures
Soil #4 Parable – v8 Explanation – v15 Description: Hears w/ an honest and good heart Holds fast to the Word Bears fruit with perseverance Parable – v8 Explanation – v15 Description: Hears w/ an honest and good heart Holds fast to the Word Bears fruit with perseverance