Every farmer knows that good seed is essential for a good harvest. However, in Jesus’ parable of the sower, the most astonishing truth is this: the seed never changes. It is the same seed scattered on every type of soil. What varies is not the seed, but the ground it falls upon. “The seed is the word of God,” Jesus says in Luke 8:11, AMP. That unchanging, living, and powerful Word is good and exceptional for every soil it touches. We often search for the best seed varieties to suit different fields in farming. However, God’s Word doesn’t work like that. His truth doesn’t require modification for various people, cultures, or communities. It is perfectly sufficient in itself. It is the seed of life.
Same Seed for All
Whether it lands on dry, rocky, thorny, or good ground, the seed of God’s Word remains consistent Mark 4:14, AMP. This truth brings conviction and salvation. We do not need to change or adapt the gospel’s message to fit each type of soil. Our task is not to improve the Word, but to spread it faithfully. Just as the farmer scatters the seed in various kinds of soil, we are to preach the Word in season and out of season, in easy places and difficult ones. Some may respond quickly, while others may resist or wither, but the seed is never at fault. Its life-giving power remains intact.
Photo:© Ian Sane / Flickr
A Word That Works
Sometimes, we feel pressured to incorporate external solutions—such as new systems, tools, or techniques—into our development work. While these can be helpful, they cannot replace the spiritual transformation that only God’s Word can produce Isaiah 55:10-11, AMP. God promises that His living Word shall not return without accomplishing its set purpose in an individual’s life. The Word of God teaches righteousness, leads to repentance, plants hope, and bears fruit. It never returns empty. However, it must be scattered; it does no good if it remains in the bag, no matter how perfect it may be. This holds true in churches, families, fields, and schools.
“We are not called to be soil testers. We are called to be sowers.”
Faithful Sowers, Not Soil Experts
Determining who is “ready” to receive the Word or which communities are “worth” investing in can be tempting. Yet, the parable urges us to sow regardless. Sow widely and generously. God will cultivate the growth where the soil is fertile, but first, the seed must be sown, Matthew 13:18-23, AMP. When you teach a child to speak truthfully to a neighbour or share Scripture, you are planting seeds. While you may not always witness the outcomes, the Word is actively at work. Trust the seed; it knows its purpose.
Prayer:
Father God, in the name of Jesus, we praise You because Your Word is perfect and powerful. We give thanks to You for giving us the same seed to scatter in every place. Help us trust its sufficiency and not rely on our strength. Teach us to sow faithfully, without fear or favouritism. And prepare the hearts, whatever soil they may be, to receive and grow. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Cover Photo: © 2015CIAT/GeorginaSmith
Last updated May 2025
(aSaC/ Olive Bexten)
