Mark Chapter 4 · Verse 16
And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness;
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 19
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
οὗτοί
these
G3778
οὗτοί
these
Strong's:
G3778
Word #:
2 of 19
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐπὶ
on
G1909
ἐπὶ
on
Strong's:
G1909
Word #:
6 of 19
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
τὰ
G3588
τὰ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
σπειρόμενοι
which are sown
G4687
σπειρόμενοι
which are sown
Strong's:
G4687
Word #:
9 of 19
to scatter, i.e., sow (literally or figuratively)
οἳ
who
G3739
οἳ
who
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
10 of 19
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
ὅταν
when
G3752
ὅταν
when
Strong's:
G3752
Word #:
11 of 19
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
λόγον
the word
G3056
λόγον
the word
Strong's:
G3056
Word #:
14 of 19
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
μετὰ
with
G3326
μετὰ
with
Strong's:
G3326
Word #:
16 of 19
properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)
Cross References
Mark 6:20For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy, and observed him; and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly.Luke 8:13They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.John 5:35He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.
Historical Context
First-century evangelism produced similar results—crowds enthusiastically followed Jesus but many abandoned Him when teaching became difficult (John 6:60-66). Early church experienced false professors who initially joined but later departed (1 John 2:19). Church history repeats this pattern: revival produces enthusiastic converts, but testing reveals many lacked root. Modern evangelistic methods sometimes emphasize emotional response over repentance and cost-counting, producing rocky-ground converts. Wise ministry prepares new believers for certain trials rather than promising only blessing.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you distinguish between genuine conversion and mere emotional enthusiasm?
- What practices cultivate deep spiritual roots that sustain faith through trials?
- How should this warning affect evangelistic methods and expectations?
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus explains rocky-ground hearers: 'these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness.' The emotional, enthusiastic reception ('immediately...with gladness,' εὐθὺς μετὰ χαρᾶς) seems promising but proves superficial. The word 'receive' (λαμβάνουσιν) indicates initial acceptance without depth. This describes false converts or immature believers whose profession lacks root. Reformed theology distinguishes true conversion (involving repentance, understanding, perseverance) from mere emotional response. Genuine faith endures; false profession withers under trial. The warning: enthusiastic beginnings don't guarantee genuine conversion.