(Christian Living Sermon) Dumas 83, Hillside 5/95
Filename: FRUIT OF THE SEED

THE FRUIT OF THE SEED
(PARABLE OF THE SOWER)

INTRODUCTION-- John 15:1-8

1. Fruitbearing is commanded to be a true disciple of the Lord.
   
2. But what is the nature of the fruit?
   
3. We can learn this from the parable of the Sower.

LESSON-- Matthew 13:1-9

1. Like those who heard the parable, we need the explanations of vs. 19-23.

2. Even with the explanation of Jesus, are we sure that we understand the meaning of this parable?
   
   1. Do we get confused between "soils" and "souls?"
      
   2. Does the parable speak of the effect of the seed on the soil, or of the effect of the soil on the seed?
      
   3. Is the fruit different from the seed?

3. What is the reason for the use of parables? Matthew 13:10-18
   
   1. There are different ways to "see." John 9:39
      
   2. Though parables are a means of obscuring truth, until a time of plain revelation--all will be eventually revealed. Matthew 10:26-27
      
   3. In using parables, Jesus was following His own advice. Matthew 7:6

4. The meaning of the Parable. Mark 4:14-20
   
   1. The sower "soweth the Word." Vs. 14
      
   2. The soils all "receive" the word, but each shows a different "use" of it.
      
   3. The soil that bears fruit must use the "seed" (the Word). Acts 6:7
      
      1. The rule of botany. Genesis 1:11-12
         
      2. Application of the rule. 2 Timothy 2:2

CONCLUSION AND APPEAL-- Are we bearing fruit? This is the Christian's work. Romans 7:4-5, Colossians 1:9-10