Sunday Preview: Rocky Soil

In the parable of the sower, the soils symbolize the condition of people's hearts. Some hearts resemble the hardened path, while others are akin to rocky soil. We will explore the remaining types of soil in the coming weeks. It's crucial to reflect on your own heart. Is it receptive to the work of God? He desires to establish a deep-rooted connection with you, as mentioned in Colossians 2:7. His goal is to strengthen and fortify your faith, but this can only happen if you allow Him. The state of your heart plays a pivotal role in this process. So, what can we learn from the rocky soil?

In Matthew 13:20-21, Jesus describes the rocky soil as someone who hears the word and initially receives it with joy but lacks depth and root. This individual represents a person with shallow faith. As we delve into verse 21a, it becomes clear that without a firm foundation, this faith is short-lived. When difficulties, persecution, or life's trials arise because of the Word, they quickly fall away.

Counting the cost of discipleship is essential, as Luke 14:26-27 and Luke 14:33 emphasize. Pressure, as mentioned in Matthew 13.21, comes into play when life events force us to make choices. The depth of our faith will significantly impact the outcomes of these choices. Pressure isn't entirely negative, as James 1:2-4 and James 1:12 illustrate. Testing our faith can lead to endurance, maturity, and a crown of life.

If you find yourself trying to thrive in rocky soil, it's essential to seek help. Ephesians 6:17 encourages us to take up the armor of God, including the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Allowing the Word of Christ to dwell richly within us, as Colossians 3:16 advises, is crucial. We should treasure God's words more than our daily sustenance, as Job 23:12 highlights. The Word of God is powerful, as Hebrews 4.12 attests, capable of discerning thoughts and intentions.

Recognize the potency of the Word, for Jesus referred to it as God's truth in John 17.17. Its message can sway hearts, as its source is divine, as stated in 1 Thessalonians 2:13. As we conclude, consider the depth of your connection with Christ. A true disciple remains, bears fruit, and abides in the vine, continually producing fruit. If you require assistance in establishing a deeper connection with Christ, we are here to help.

As we come together Sunday we will:

• Define rocky soil.
• Learn how to remove any rocks you may have.

As you prepare for worship, you might think on these questions:

1. How would you describe a person with shallow faith?
2. What does it mean to "count the cost?"
3. How can we do a better job helping those considering Jesus "count the cost?"
4. Are you willing to do the necessary self-examination to see if there are any rocks lodged underneath the soil of your heart?
5. How serious are you in allowing God's word to do its job?

OPENING / WELCOME
Kody Pritt
SONG LEADER
Mark Ringle
PRAYER OF PRAISE
Jim Rutter
LEAD LORD'S SUPPER
Drew Triplett
 ASSIST LORD’S SUPPER
Marvin Lewis
Jeremy Price
Gary Jackson
Ben Baker
SCRIPTURE READING
Tommy Ray
Matthew 13.20-21
PREACHING
Matthew Allen
CLOSING PRAYER
Titus Sullivan
CLOSING COMMENTS
Boyd Hastings
WELCOME CENTER
Emily McDonald / Sadonna Schofield
USHERS
Dan Spargo / Mike Rosato
SONG DEVOTIONAL
Jim Grushon
COMMUNION PREP
Makenna Hartley
CLOSING THE BUILDING
Josh Childers