Those Cruel People: Mark 4:16-17
“16) In a similar way these are the ones on whom seed was sown on the rocky places, who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy; 17) and they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away.” Mark 4:16-17
The second kind of soil Jesus called “rocky places.” The seed sprouted quickly, but then the sun beat down on the rocks and the little plants were cooked. (Mark 4:5-6). They shriveled up and died.
Jesus said these are the people who when they hear the word immediately receive it with joy, but they have no firm root in themselves. They are only temporary.
Then it happens. They start experimenting affliction and persecution because of the word. It might come in the form of teasing, ridicule, mocking or rejection… and as a result, they immediately fall away.
Think about it, this enemy relates to other people. It might be family, friends, work associates or a scornful college professor. People can be cruel. Rejection hurts, but it’s not worth abandoning Jesus because of some ridicule.
So far, Jesus has identified two enemies that are against you. They are Satan and other people. You better be prepared. If you want to be fruitful for Jesus, you will face both of these enemies. I dare say that the enemies are gaining in severity. I have found the third one to be the most difficult.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
“16) In a similar way these are the ones on whom seed was sown on the rocky places, who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy; 17) and they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away.” Mark 4:16-17
The second kind of soil Jesus called “rocky places.” The seed sprouted quickly, but then the sun beat down on the rocks and the little plants were cooked. (Mark 4:5-6). They shriveled up and died.
Jesus said these are the people who when they hear the word immediately receive it with joy, but they have no firm root in themselves. They are only temporary.
Then it happens. They start experimenting affliction and persecution because of the word. It might come in the form of teasing, ridicule, mocking or rejection… and as a result, they immediately fall away.
Think about it, this enemy relates to other people. It might be family, friends, work associates or a scornful college professor. People can be cruel. Rejection hurts, but it’s not worth abandoning Jesus because of some ridicule.
So far, Jesus has identified two enemies that are against you. They are Satan and other people. You better be prepared. If you want to be fruitful for Jesus, you will face both of these enemies. I dare say that the enemies are gaining in severity. I have found the third one to be the most difficult.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
