Have you ever been surprised, perplexed or disappointed by watching a Christian you admired leave church or renounce their faith? As hard as this is to grapple with, Jesus told his followers a parable to help them expect and understand it. Sometimes, some people have had hurtful or even harmful experiences of religious people and, for this reason, need space to recover. However, barring this, Matthew 13.1-23 gives those with "ears to hear" a clear picture of what happens to people as they journey in faith. Some never understand the Gospel, and so move on very quickly. Others receive Jesus' love with joy and enthusiasm, but their commitment is shallow. As soon as something very painful happens in life, they struggle to sustain it. Some are keen, but the other commitments in their life overwhelm their relationship with God. Others are in forever, no matter what, forsaking all others. These will bear fruit and that is guaranteed. 

Podcast by Heather Cetrangolo, 12 July 2026