Sometimes we read right past the wisdom and glory of Jesus. In the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23) Jesus says something so helpful, so smart, and so possibly life changing. It involves the seed that lands in the thorns.
Below are how Matthew, Mark and Luke record Jesus’ words. Note the differences in each gospel.
Matthew 13:22 As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.
Mark 4:18-19 And others are the ones sown among thorns. They are those who hear the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.
Luke 8:14 And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature.
Jesus, being all-wise and all-knowing, pulls back the curtains for us and says, “Mark my words, the stuff of this world will distract you and choke you. These things will be a detriment and bring loss, not gain. You will seek the pleasures of the world, but they will never produce spiritual maturity.”
Keep your eyes on Jesus. Hebrews 12:2
What a glorious savior to reveal this to us.
The Men's Bible Reading Idea 