Why Some Hear and Some Don’t

Why Some Hear and Some Don’t

August 16, 2026 · 48 min

Selective listening is a communication barrier where a person chooses to hear only parts of a message that fit their interests, biases, or expectations. People who hear the gospel will have various responses. Some will hear and respond favorably. For others, a favorable response will only be temporary. And some will flat out reject it. Let’s unpack the parable that describes this process.I. The Sower (vv. 13-14)II. The Seed (v. 14b)III. The Soils (vv. 15-20)Learn Your Bible: As you spend time in the Word this week, ask the Lord to soften any hardness in your heart and deepen your roots so you’re ready to “stand fast in the faith” (1 Corinthians 16:13).Love Your Neighbor: Some receive the Word with joy but fall away when challenges arise. How can you help a new believer in your life develop deeper roots before hardship causes their faith to wither?Live in Freedom: Which thorn is most likely to choke spiritual fruitfulness in your life right now: the cares of the world, the deceitfulness of riches, or desires for other things?

Skip Heitzig

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