Matthew 13:20
But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
Original Language Analysis
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐπὶ
into
G1909
ἐπὶ
into
Strong's:
G1909
Word #:
3 of 18
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 #:
4 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
σπαρείς,
he that received the seed
G4687
σπαρείς,
he that received the seed
Strong's:
G4687
Word #:
6 of 18
to scatter, i.e., sow (literally or figuratively)
οὗτός
the same
G3778
οὗτός
the same
Strong's:
G3778
Word #:
7 of 18
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
λόγον
the word
G3056
λόγον
the word
Strong's:
G3056
Word #:
11 of 18
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
13 of 18
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
εὐθὺς
anon
G2117
εὐθὺς
anon
Strong's:
G2117
Word #:
14 of 18
straight, i.e., (literally) level, or (figuratively) true; adverbially (of time) at once
μετὰ
with
G3326
μετὰ
with
Strong's:
G3326
Word #:
15 of 18
properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)
Cross References
John 5:35He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.Isaiah 58:2Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God.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.2 Chronicles 24:2And Joash did that which was right in the sight of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest.Acts 8:13Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.2 Chronicles 24:14And when they had finished it, they brought the rest of the money before the king and Jehoiada, whereof were made vessels for the house of the LORD, even vessels to minister, and to offer withal, and spoons, and vessels of gold and silver. And they offered burnt offerings in the house of the LORD continually all the days of Jehoiada.2 Chronicles 24:6And the king called for Jehoiada the chief, and said unto him, Why hast thou not required of the Levites to bring in out of Judah and out of Jerusalem the collection, according to the commandment of Moses the servant of the LORD, and of the congregation of Israel, for the tabernacle of witness?
Historical Context
Galilean limestone bedrock often lay just inches beneath topsoil. Farmers recognized rocky ground produced quick germination but poor harvest. Jesus's agricultural metaphor would immediately resonate—everyone knew the disappointment of promising sprouts that withered when summer heat came. This parable warns against measuring conversion success by initial enthusiasm rather than persevering fruit.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you distinguish between genuine conversion and emotional response that lacks root?
- What role should 'joy' play in authentic Christianity—and what are its limitations as evidence of salvation?
- Where might your spiritual life be 'rocky'—showing impressive initial growth in some area without depth to sustain it?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
He that received the seed into stony places (ὁ ἐπὶ τὰ πετρώδη σπαρείς)—rocky ground with thin topsoil over limestone bedrock. Seed sprouts quickly in shallow soil warmed by underlying rock, creating impressive initial growth. Anon with joy receiveth it (εὐθὺς μετὰ χαρᾶς λαμβάνει αὐτόν)—euthus means 'immediately, at once.' Emotional, enthusiastic response without depth characterizes this hearer.
This describes superficial conversions—impressive external response lacking internal transformation. The 'joy' is genuine but immature, based on benefits (healing, community, emotional experience) rather than Christ Himself. Modern 'decisions for Christ' that produce no lasting change fit this category. The issue isn't the joy (which should accompany salvation, 1 Peter 1:8) but its shallowness, rooted in rocky soil incapable of sustaining growth.