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"This is what the story illustrates: The seed is God's word.
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Some people are like seeds that were planted along the road. They hear the word, but then the devil comes. He takes the word away from them so that they don't believe and become saved.
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Some people are like seeds on rocky soil. They welcome the word with joy whenever they hear it, but they don't develop any roots. They believe for a while, but when their faith is tested, they abandon it.
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The seeds that were planted among thornbushes are people who hear the word, but as life goes on the worries, riches, and pleasures of life choke them. So they don't produce anything good.
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The seeds that were planted on good ground are people who also hear the word. But they keep it in their good and honest hearts and produce what is good despite what life may bring.
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"No one lights a lamp and hides it under a bowl or puts it under a bed. Instead, everyone who lights a lamp puts it on a lamp stand so that those who come in will see the light.
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There is nothing hidden that will not be revealed. There is nothing kept secret that will not come to light.
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"So pay attention to how you listen! Those who understand [these mysteries] will be given [more knowledge]. However, some people don't understand [these mysteries]. Even what they think they understand will be taken away from them."
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His mother and his brothers came to see him. But they couldn't meet with him because of the crowd.
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Someone told Jesus, "Your mother and your brothers are standing outside. They want to see you."
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He answered them, "My mother and my brothers are those who hear and do what God's word says."