In the parable of the sower in Matthew 13, we read about the seed that is sown among thorns. Worry and the deceitfulness of wealth are these thorns, which work to choke out the Word of God and cause us to stumble in faith. This author challenges us not to worry, but instead to bear fruit for God’s kingdom.

How do we listen to sermons? What are the marks of good listening? This article looks at the parable of the sower in Mark 4 to discuss how Christians can train themselves to listen well to the preaching of the Word.