Luke 8:15

KJV

But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep [it], and bring forth fruit with patience.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} that on {G1722} the good {G2570} ground {G1093} are {G1526} they {G3778}, which {G3748} in {G1722} an honest {G2570} and {G2532} good {G18} heart {G2588}, having heard {G191} the word {G3056}, keep {G2722} it, and {G2532} bring forth fruit {G2592} with {G1722} patience {G5281}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But what fell in rich soil -- these are the ones who, when they hear the message, hold onto it with a good, receptive heart; and by persevering, they bring forth a harvest.

Berean Standard Bible

But the seeds on good soil are those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, cling to it, and by persevering produce a crop.

American Standard Version

And that in the good ground, these are such as in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, hold it fast, and bring forth fruit with patience.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 8:15 concludes Jesus' Parable of the Sower, illuminating the characteristics of those who genuinely receive and respond to God's word. It describes individuals with a receptive, morally upright heart who, having heard the divine message, actively retain it and, through steadfast endurance, produce abundant spiritual fruit, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel in their lives.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Luke 8:15 serves as the climactic interpretive key to Jesus' [Parable of the Sower](/luke/8-4-8 "Luke 8:4-8 - The Parable of the Sower"), which spans [Luke 8:4-15](/luke/8-4-15 "Luke 8:4-15 - Parable of the Sower and its Meaning"). This parable, also recounted in [Matthew 13](/matthew/13 "Matthew 13 - Parables of the Kingdom") and [Mark 4](/mark/4 "Mark 4 - Parables and Miracles"), illustrates various responses to the proclamation of the Kingdom of God. After detailing the seed falling on the path (snatched away), rocky ground (shallow root), and thorny ground (choked by worries), Jesus culminates with the "good ground." This final category reveals the ideal and fruitful reception of the word, providing a stark contrast to the unfruitful categories and emphasizing the critical role of the hearer's heart condition in spiritual growth and productivity. The verse not only explains the parable but also sets a standard for discipleship.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Galilee, agriculture was the backbone of society, making the imagery of sowing and reaping immediately relatable to Jesus' audience. Farmers understood the challenges of different soil types and the importance of fertile ground for a successful harvest. The concept of "heart" (Greek: _kardia_) in ancient Jewish thought was not merely an organ but the center of one's being—intellect, emotion, and will. Thus, an "honest and good heart" would have resonated as a person of integrity, whose inner disposition was aligned with truth and righteousness, ready to embrace new teaching. The emphasis on "patience" (Greek: _hypomonē_) would have also been understood in a culture where agricultural cycles required long periods of waiting between sowing and harvest, mirroring the spiritual truth that growth and fruitfulness are not instantaneous but require steadfast endurance.

* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several major themes central to Luke's Gospel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the **sovereignty of God's word** and its inherent power to transform, yet simultaneously underscores the **responsibility of human reception**. The parable itself, and this verse in particular, stress that the problem is never with the "seed" (the word of God) but with the "soil" (the hearer's heart). Secondly, the theme of **fruitfulness** is paramount, signifying not just spiritual growth but also tangible evidence of a changed life, echoing Jesus' teaching on discipleship in [John 15:8](/john/15-8 "John 15:8 - Bearing Much Fruit"). Thirdly, **perseverance** (patience) emerges as a vital component of genuine faith. True discipleship is not a fleeting enthusiasm but an enduring commitment, as seen in other Lukan passages emphasizing steadfastness through trials, such as [Luke 21:19](/luke/21-19 "Luke 21:19 - Perseverance in Persecution"). Finally, the **condition of the heart** is presented as foundational, determining the outcome of one's encounter with God's truth, a concept frequently explored in the Old Testament (e.g., [Proverbs 4:23](/proverbs/4-23 "Proverbs 4:23 - Guard Your Heart")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Good (Greek, _kalós_):** This word, often translated as "good" or "beautiful," carries a sense of inherent excellence, nobility, and moral uprightness. When combined with _agathós_ (also "good," but implying intrinsic moral goodness or benefit), it describes a heart that is not only morally sound but also inherently well-disposed and receptive to truth, free from hidden motives or resistance. It signifies a heart that is fit and proper for receiving the divine seed.
* **Heart (Greek, _kardía_):** In biblical anthropology, the "heart" is far more than a physical organ; it is the core of human existence—the seat of intellect, emotion, will, and moral character. An "honest and good heart" therefore refers to a person's entire inner being: their thoughts, intentions, desires, and moral disposition. It implies sincerity, integrity, and a willingness to obey.
* **Patience (Greek, _hypomonē_):** This term denotes not passive waiting but active, cheerful, and hopeful endurance under pressure. It describes a steadfast perseverance in the face of trials, opposition, or delays. In the context of spiritual fruitfulness, it means remaining faithful to the word of God despite difficulties, understanding that growth and maturity take time and unwavering commitment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart,"**: This clause introduces the fourth and final category of hearers in the parable. The "good ground" represents individuals whose inner disposition—their "honest and good heart"—is prepared to receive God's word. This heart is characterized by sincerity, moral integrity, and a receptive posture, contrasting with the hardened, shallow, or distracted hearts previously described. It is a heart free from the spiritual impediments that prevent the word from taking root.
* **"having heard the word, keep [it],"**: This phrase emphasizes that mere auditory reception is insufficient. Those on the "good ground" not only "hear" (Greek: _akoúō_, to listen and understand) the word but also "keep" it (Greek: _katéchō_, to hold fast, retain, possess, or obey). This signifies an active, intentional retention and adherence to the word, allowing it to dwell deeply within their lives and shape their thoughts and actions, rather than letting it slip away or be choked out.
* **"and bring forth fruit with patience."**: This final clause describes the ultimate outcome and the manner in which it is achieved. The "fruit" (Greek: _karpophoréō_, to be fertile, bear fruit) refers to the evidence of a transformed life—spiritual growth, righteous character, obedience, and works that glorify God. This fruitfulness is not instantaneous but is produced "with patience" (Greek: _hypomonē_), signifying the necessity of steadfast endurance, perseverance, and faithfulness through the trials and challenges of life. It highlights that genuine spiritual maturity is a process that requires sustained commitment.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 8:15 employs **Allegory** as its primary literary device, as it is part of Jesus' direct interpretation of the Parable of the Sower. Each element of the parable (the sower, the seed, and the different types of ground) is explicitly assigned a symbolic meaning, with this verse specifically explaining the "good ground." The "seed" is the word of God, and the "ground" represents the human heart. **Metaphor** is also evident in the comparison of spiritual growth and righteous living to "fruit," drawing on the agricultural imagery prevalent throughout the parable. This metaphor powerfully conveys the idea of a productive, life-giving outcome resulting from a healthy spiritual state. Furthermore, the phrase "honest and good heart" uses **Synecdoche**, where "heart" stands for the entire inner person—intellect, will, and emotion—highlighting the holistic nature of spiritual receptivity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 8:15 powerfully articulates the divine-human partnership in salvation and sanctification. While God sovereignly sows His word, human responsibility lies in cultivating a receptive heart. This verse underscores that true faith is not merely intellectual assent but a transformative encounter that leads to active obedience and demonstrable spiritual fruit. It connects deeply with the biblical emphasis on the internal condition of the heart as the wellspring of life and action, asserting that genuine spiritual vitality manifests in sustained faithfulness and productivity for God's kingdom. The "patience" required for fruit-bearing also speaks to the eschatological hope and the perseverance necessary for believers awaiting the Lord's return, enduring through trials with steadfastness.

* [Matthew 7:17-20](/matthew/7-17-20 "Matthew 7:17-20 - You Will Recognize Them by Their Fruits")
* [James 1:22-25](/james/1-22-25 "James 1:22-25 - Being Doers of the Word")
* [Hebrews 10:36](/hebrews/10-36 "Hebrews 10:36 - Perseverance for the Promise")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 8:15 serves as a profound challenge and encouragement for every believer. It compels us to honestly examine the condition of our own hearts. Are we merely passive hearers of God's word, or are we actively cultivating the "good ground" within us? This verse reminds us that genuine spiritual growth and fruitfulness are not automatic but require intentionality: a sincere and receptive heart that eagerly embraces truth, a commitment to retain and obey what is heard, and the steadfast endurance to persevere through life's inevitable challenges. In a world that often seeks instant gratification, the call to "bring forth fruit with patience" is particularly poignant, reminding us that spiritual maturity is a lifelong process. Our lives should be a testament to the transformative power of the gospel, yielding fruit that honors God, blesses others, and demonstrates the authenticity of our faith, even when the path is long and difficult.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What is the current condition of my heart as "soil" for God's word? Is it hardened, shallow, thorny, or good ground?**
* **Beyond merely hearing, how am I actively "keeping" (retaining, obeying, living out) the word of God in my daily life?**
* **What "fruit" is evident in my life, demonstrating the transformative power of the gospel?**
* **In what areas of my life do I need more "patience" and perseverance to see God's word bear fruit?**

### FAQ
**What does "honest and good heart" mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "honest and good heart" (Greek: _kalos kai agathos kardia_) describes a heart that is morally upright, sincere, and receptive to truth. It signifies an inner disposition that is free from deceit, resistance, or hidden motives, making it fertile ground for God's word to take root and flourish. It implies a readiness to understand, accept, and obey the divine message, contrasting sharply with the hardened, shallow, or distracted hearts described earlier in the [Parable of the Sower](/luke/8-4-8 "Luke 8:4-8 - The Parable of the Sower"). It's about the integrity and receptiveness of one's entire inner being.

**What kind of "fruit" is Jesus referring to in Luke 8:15?**

Answer: The "fruit" Jesus refers to is multifaceted and represents the tangible evidence of a transformed life that results from truly receiving and obeying God's word. This includes spiritual growth, the development of righteous character, obedience to God's commands, and the manifestation of the [fruit of the Spirit](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit") (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control). It can also encompass actions that glorify God and benefit others, such as sharing the gospel or serving in the church and community. Ultimately, it signifies a life that is productive for God's kingdom, demonstrating the authenticity of one's faith (as seen in [Matthew 7:17-20](/matthew/7-17-20 "Matthew 7:17-20 - You Will Recognize Them by Their Fruits")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 8:15, while focusing on the hearer's response, inherently points to Christ as the ultimate "Word" and the source of all spiritual fruitfulness. Jesus Himself is the "seed" of God, the living Word who was sown into the world, and His life perfectly exemplifies the "honest and good heart" that fully receives and perfectly obeys the Father's will, even unto death on the cross. He is the one who "kept" the word of God flawlessly, and through His perfect obedience, He "brought forth fruit" in abundance—the fruit of redemption, reconciliation, and eternal life for all who believe. Our ability to cultivate "good ground" and bear fruit is not inherent but is a result of our union with Christ, the true vine, as He teaches in [John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - I Am the Vine, You Are the Branches"). It is through His Spirit, given to us, that we are empowered to have a receptive heart, to hold fast to His teachings, and to persevere "with patience" until the day of His return, reflecting His character and contributing to His Kingdom. Thus, Luke 8:15 not only describes the ideal disciple but ultimately directs our gaze to the perfect Disciple, Jesus Christ, from whom all spiritual vitality flows.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hebrews 10:36

For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

Galatians 5:22

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

Galatians 5:26

Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Luke 6:45

A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.

Colossians 1:10

That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Colossians 1:6

Which is come unto you, as [it is] in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as [it doth] also in you, since the day ye heard [of it], and knew the grace of God in truth:

1 John 2:3

¶ And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.