Matthew 13:20

KJV

But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} he that received the seed {G4687} into {G1909} stony places {G4075}, the same {G3778} is {G2076} he that heareth {G191} the word {G3056}, and {G2532} anon {G2117} with {G3326} joy {G5479} receiveth {G2983} it {G846};

Complete Jewish Bible

The seed sown on rocky ground is like a person who hears the message and accepts it with joy at once,

Berean Standard Bible

The seed sown on rocky ground is the one who hears the word and at once receives it with joy.

American Standard Version

And he that was sown upon the rocky places, this is he that heareth the word, and straightway with joy receiveth it;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 13:20 describes the second type of hearer in Jesus' Parable of the Sower: those who receive the word of the kingdom with immediate enthusiasm and joy, yet lack deep spiritual roots. This initial, superficial reception prevents the word from truly transforming their hearts, leading to a quick fading of faith when trials or persecution arise, as their joy is based on emotion rather than a firm foundation in the truth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Jesus' private explanation of the Parable of the Sower to His disciples, found in [Matthew 13:18-23](/matthew/13-18-23 "Matthew 13:18-23 - Jesus Explains the Parable of the Sower"). The parable itself, narrated in [Matthew 13:1-9](/matthew/13-1-9 "Matthew 13:1-9 - The Parable of the Sower"), uses agricultural imagery to illustrate various responses to the "word of the kingdom." Jesus' explanation clarifies that the "seed" represents the divine message, and the different types of "soil" symbolize the diverse conditions of human hearts. Verse 20 specifically unpacks the meaning of the seed falling on "stony places," detailing the characteristics and ultimate failure of this particular type of hearer, immediately following the description of the path (v. 19) and preceding the thorny ground (v. 22) and good soil (v. 23). This structured explanation highlights the critical importance of a receptive and enduring heart for genuine spiritual growth.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The agricultural setting of the parable was deeply familiar to Jesus' audience in Galilee. The "stony places" (Greek: _petrōdē_) refer not to ground merely littered with loose stones, but to a common geological feature in the region: a thin layer of topsoil covering a solid bedrock of limestone. While this shallow soil allowed seeds to sprout quickly due to surface warmth, the underlying rock prevented roots from penetrating deeply to find moisture and nutrients. This made the plants vulnerable to the intense Galilean sun, causing them to wither rapidly. Culturally, the act of hearing and receiving teaching was central to Jewish life, particularly from a revered rabbi. The parable, therefore, drew on everyday experiences to convey profound spiritual truths about the reception of the divine word, emphasizing that outward enthusiasm without inward depth is insufficient for enduring faith.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 13:20 contributes significantly to several key themes within the chapter and the broader Gospel. It underscores the theme of **receptivity to the kingdom of heaven**, contrasting superficial hearing with genuine, transformative reception. The immediate, joyful acceptance followed by a quick fading of faith highlights the distinction between **initial enthusiasm and enduring commitment**. This verse also emphasizes the **condition of the heart** as the crucial factor in spiritual fruitfulness, aligning with the broader biblical teaching that God looks at the heart ([1 Samuel 16:7](/1_samuel/16-7 "1 Samuel 16:7 - God Looks at the Heart")). Furthermore, it implicitly introduces the theme of **perseverance through tribulation**, which is explicitly developed in the subsequent verse ([Matthew 13:21](/matthew/13-21 "Matthew 13:21 - The Fading of Faith Under Tribulation")). The parable as a whole, including this verse, serves as a warning against shallow faith and a call to cultivate a heart that truly allows the word to take deep root and bear lasting fruit for the kingdom.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **stony places (Greek, _petrṓdēs'_):** Derived from _petra_ (rock) and _eidos_ (form), this term describes ground that is "rock-like" or "rocky." As explained in the historical context, it refers specifically to a thin layer of soil covering solid bedrock, not merely soil with loose stones. This geological reality is crucial to understanding why the seed sprouts quickly but cannot develop deep roots, leading to its rapid wilting. Spiritually, it symbolizes a heart with a superficial openness to the Word, but an underlying hardness or resistance that prevents genuine, deep transformation and commitment.
* **anon (Greek, _euthýs'_):** This adverb means "straight," "immediately," or "at once." In the KJV, "anon" conveys this sense of immediacy. Its use here emphasizes the swiftness with which the word is received by this type of hearer. There is no delay, no hesitation, but also no deep consideration or counting of the cost. This instantaneous reception, while seemingly positive, is indicative of its superficiality, lacking the necessary depth for endurance.
* **joy (Greek, _chará'_):** This word signifies "cheerfulness" or "calm delight." The individual receives the word with genuine emotional pleasure. This is not necessarily a negative emotion in itself, but in this context, it highlights that the reception is primarily emotional and superficial, rather than a deep, intellectual, and volitional commitment. The "joy" is based on the immediate appeal or benefit perceived, but it is not rooted in a true understanding of the word's demands or the nature of the kingdom, making it fragile and fleeting when difficulties arise.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But he that received the seed into stony places":** This clause identifies the second category of hearer. The "seed" (the word of the kingdom) falls on ground that is superficially receptive but fundamentally shallow due to underlying rock. This person's initial receptivity is limited by an unplowed or unsoftened heart that cannot allow the truth to penetrate deeply and establish firm roots.
* **"the same is he that heareth the word":** This part explicitly links the stony ground to a specific type of individual who hears the divine message. It confirms that the parable is not about the seed's quality, but the hearer's disposition. This individual genuinely hears the word, indicating an initial exposure and comprehension of its content.
* **"and anon with joy receiveth it;":** This final phrase describes the immediate and emotional response of this hearer. "Anon" (immediately) emphasizes the swiftness, and "with joy" highlights the emotional enthusiasm. The reception is eager and seemingly positive, but it is a shallow, emotional acceptance rather than a deep, enduring commitment. This joy, lacking a deep root, will quickly fade when the demands or difficulties associated with the word arise.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in this verse, as part of the larger parable, is **Symbolism**. The "seed" **symbolizes** the word of the kingdom or the gospel message. The "stony places" **symbolize** a particular condition of the human heart: one that is superficially receptive but lacks the depth for true spiritual rooting. The "joy" **symbolizes** an initial emotional enthusiasm that is not sustained by genuine conviction or commitment. Together, these symbols create a vivid metaphorical representation of different responses to God's truth. The **Analogy** between agricultural realities and spiritual truths makes the abstract concept of spiritual reception concrete and understandable. The rapid sprouting and subsequent wilting of the plant on stony ground serves as a powerful **Metaphor** for the short-lived faith of those who receive the word without deep internal transformation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 13:20 serves as a profound theological warning about the nature of genuine faith and the necessity of a deeply transformed heart. It underscores that an initial emotional response, even one marked by joy, is insufficient for true discipleship if it lacks the depth of conviction and commitment required to endure. This type of hearer highlights the distinction between superficial enthusiasm and the resilient faith that weathers life's storms. True reception of God's word involves not just intellectual assent or emotional pleasure, but a fundamental change of heart that allows the truth to take root, draw sustenance, and produce lasting fruit. The passage implicitly calls for self-examination, urging believers to cultivate a heart that is truly open and prepared for the word, capable of withstanding the inevitable challenges of the Christian walk.

* [James 1:2-4](/james/1-2-4 "James 1:2-4 - Perseverance Through Trials")
* [Colossians 2:6-7](/colossians/2-6-7 "Colossians 2:6-7 - Rooted and Built Up in Christ")
* [Luke 8:13](/luke/8-13 "Luke 8:13 - The Stony Ground in Luke's Parable")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 13:20 offers a critical mirror for self-reflection on the depth and authenticity of our own faith. It challenges us to move beyond mere emotional highs or fleeting enthusiasm for spiritual truths, prompting us to examine the "soil" of our hearts. Do we allow the Word of God to penetrate deeply, transforming our core beliefs and actions, or do we keep it at a superficial level, easily swayed by external pressures or personal comfort? True spiritual growth demands a willingness to let the Word expose and break up the "stony places" of pride, fear, worldly attachments, or unconfessed sin that prevent deep rooting. This verse reminds us that genuine discipleship is not just about the initial reception of joy, but about enduring through tribulation and persecution for the sake of the Word. It calls us to cultivate a resilient faith, one that is firmly anchored in Christ, capable of drawing strength from Him even when the sun of adversity beats down.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might your "soil" be stony, preventing the Word from taking deep root?**
* **Do you find your spiritual joy quickly fades when challenges or opposition arise because of your faith? Why or why not?**
* **What practical steps can you take to cultivate a deeper, more receptive heart for God's Word, allowing it to transform you more profoundly?**
* **How do you prepare yourself to endure tribulation and persecution, rather than falling away when they come?**

### FAQ

**What does "stony places" truly mean in this parable?**

Answer: In the context of the Parable of the Sower, "stony places" (Greek: _petrṓdēs_) does not refer to ground merely littered with loose stones that could be cleared. Instead, it describes a common geological feature in ancient Israel, particularly Galilee: a thin layer of topsoil covering solid bedrock, often limestone. While this shallow soil allows seeds to sprout quickly due to surface warmth, the underlying rock prevents the roots from penetrating deeply to access moisture and nutrients. This means the plant, though it appears to grow initially, cannot sustain itself and quickly withers under the sun's heat. Spiritually, it symbolizes a heart that has a superficial openness to the Word of God, but an underlying hardness or lack of depth that prevents genuine, enduring faith and transformation.

**Why is "joy" a problem for the hearer on stony ground?**

Answer: The "joy" described in [Matthew 13:20](/matthew/13-20 "Matthew 13:20 - The Stony Ground Hearer") is not inherently negative, but in this context, it highlights a superficial or emotional reception of the Word. This individual's joy is immediate and enthusiastic, perhaps stemming from the initial excitement of hearing good news or the perceived benefits of following Christ. However, this joy is not rooted in a deep understanding of the Word's demands, the cost of discipleship, or a committed relationship with God. When "tribulation or persecution arises because of the word" ([Matthew 13:21](/matthew/13-21 "Matthew 13:21 - Tribulation and Persecution")), this shallow, emotionally-based joy quickly dissipates because there is no deep spiritual foundation to sustain it. It's a joy that lacks endurance, contrasting with the "joy of the Lord" that serves as strength ([Nehemiah 8:10](/nehemiah/8-10 "Nehemiah 8:10 - The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength")) even in suffering.

**How does this verse relate to genuine faith and discipleship?**

Answer: [Matthew 13:20](/matthew/13-20 "Matthew 13:20 - The Stony Ground Hearer") serves as a crucial warning that genuine faith and discipleship require more than just an initial, joyful reception of the gospel. True faith is characterized by depth, perseverance, and a willingness to endure challenges for the sake of the Word. The hearer on stony ground represents those who embrace Christianity superficially, perhaps for its perceived benefits or emotional appeal, but are unwilling to commit fully when difficulties arise. Genuine discipleship, by contrast, involves allowing the Word to deeply transform one's heart, leading to a resilient faith that can withstand "tribulation or persecution" ([Matthew 13:21](/matthew/13-21 "Matthew 13:21 - Tribulation and Persecution")) and produce lasting fruit ([Matthew 13:23](/matthew/13-23 "Matthew 13:23 - The Good Soil Hearer")). It's a call to examine the sincerity and depth of one's commitment to Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Matthew 13:20 describes a type of hearer whose faith is ultimately shallow, the broader narrative of the Gospels points to Christ as the ultimate embodiment of the "good soil" and the one who perfectly receives and fulfills the Word of God. Jesus, the Word made flesh ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), perfectly lived out a life of complete obedience and deep rootedness in the Father's will, even unto death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Obedience to Death")). Unlike the hearer on stony ground, Christ's joy was not fleeting or dependent on circumstance, but a deep, abiding satisfaction in doing the Father's will, even in the face of immense suffering and persecution ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of Our Faith")). His life demonstrates the profound depth and unwavering commitment required for true spiritual fruitfulness. Furthermore, through His atoning work, Jesus makes it possible for our "stony hearts" to be transformed into "hearts of flesh" ([Ezekiel 36:26](/ezekiel/36-26 "Ezekiel 36:26 - A New Heart and a New Spirit")) by the power of the Holy Spirit, enabling us to truly receive and bear fruit from the seed of the Word, rooted in Him ([Colossians 2:7](/colossians/2-7 "Colossians 2:7 - Rooted and Built Up in Christ")). He is the one who empowers us to endure, ensuring that our joy in Him is not superficial but eternal.

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

Ezekiel 33:31

And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee [as] my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they shew much love, [but] their heart goeth after their covetousness.

Ezekiel 33:32

And, lo, thou [art] unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument: for they hear thy words, but they do them not.

Psalms 106:12

Then believed they his words; they sang his praise.

Psalms 106:13

¶ They soon forgat his works; they waited not for his counsel:

John 5:35

He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.

Isaiah 58:2

Yet 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 6:20

For 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.