Matthew 13:21

KJV

Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

KJV (with Strong's)

Yet {G1161} hath he {G2192} not {G3756} root {G4491} in {G1722} himself {G1438}, but {G235} dureth {G2076} for a while {G4340}: for {G1161} when tribulation {G2347} or {G2228} persecution {G1375} ariseth {G1096} because {G1223} of the word {G3056}, by and by {G2117} he is offended {G4624}.

Complete Jewish Bible

but has no root in himself. So he stays on for a while; but as soon as some trouble or persecution arises on account of the message, he immediately falls away.

Berean Standard Bible

But since he has no root, he remains for only a season. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away.

American Standard Version

yet hath he not root in himself, but endureth for a while; and when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, straightway he stumbleth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 13:21, an integral part of Jesus's explanation of the Parable of the Sower, describes the shallow faith of those who initially receive the Gospel with enthusiasm but lack deep spiritual conviction. This verse highlights that when adversity, specifically tribulation or persecution arising because of their commitment to the "word," strikes, their superficial belief proves unsustainable, causing them to stumble and fall away. It serves as a stark warning about the necessity of genuine, enduring faith rooted in a transformed heart.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Jesus's exposition of the Parable of the Sower, recorded in [Matthew 13](/matthew/13 "Matthew 13 - Parables of the Kingdom"). The parable itself ([Matthew 13:3-9](/matthew/13-3-9 "Matthew 13:3-9 - The Parable of the Sower")) describes four types of soil, each representing a different response to the "word of the kingdom." Following the parable, Jesus explains to His disciples why He teaches in parables ([Matthew 13:10-17](/matthew/13-10-17 "Matthew 13:10-17 - Why Jesus Taught in Parables")), before offering a detailed, private interpretation of the Sower parable in [Matthew 13:18-23](/matthew/13-18-23 "Matthew 13:18-23 - Jesus Explains the Parable of the Sower"). Specifically, [Matthew 13:21](/matthew/13-21 "Matthew 13:21 - The Stony Ground Hearer") unpacks the condition of the seed that fell on "stony places" as described in [Matthew 13:5-6](/matthew/13-5-6 "Matthew 13:5-6 - The Stony Ground"). This immediate context reveals Jesus's concern not just with the initial reception of the Gospel, but with its enduring impact and the factors that hinder genuine spiritual growth.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Galilee, where Jesus taught, was primarily an agrarian society, making farming metaphors highly relatable to His audience. The agricultural practices involved scattering seed by hand, often onto varied terrain. In Palestine, it was common to find thin layers of topsoil covering bedrock, especially on hillsides. This "stony ground" was not necessarily full of loose stones, but rather had a shallow layer of soil above solid rock. While the seed could germinate quickly due to the warmth of the shallow soil, the roots could not penetrate deeply to find moisture and nutrients. When the sun rose with scorching heat, the plant would wither. This physical reality provided a vivid and easily understood illustration for Jesus's spiritual lesson about the superficiality of some responses to the divine message. Furthermore, the early Christian community, to whom Matthew's Gospel was addressed, faced significant "tribulation and persecution" from both Jewish authorities and, increasingly, the Roman Empire, making the warning about falling away under pressure acutely relevant.

* **Key Themes:** [Matthew 13:21](/matthew/13-21 "Matthew 13:21 - The Stony Ground Hearer") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the chapter and the Gospel. A primary theme is the **nature of the Kingdom of God** and the **varied responses to its message**. The parable illustrates that merely hearing the word is insufficient; genuine transformation requires deep reception and perseverance. The verse specifically highlights the theme of **superficial faith**, where initial enthusiasm is not matched by deep spiritual roots, leading to a lack of **endurance** in the face of adversity. This contrasts sharply with the "good ground" that "bears fruit" ([Matthew 13:23](/matthew/13-23 "Matthew 13:23 - The Good Ground Hearer")). It also underscores the inevitability of **tribulation and persecution** for those who follow Christ, revealing these challenges as tests that expose the true condition of one's faith. The concept of **stumbling** or **falling away** (Greek: _skandalizomai_) is also a crucial theme, emphasizing the danger of apostasy when faith is not deeply rooted.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **root (Greek, _rhíza'_):** (G4491) This term, literally referring to the underground part of a plant that anchors it and absorbs nutrients, is used metaphorically here. In the context of the parable, it signifies the essential foundation, depth of conviction, and spiritual nourishment necessary for enduring faith. Without a deep "root in himself," the individual lacks the internal resources and stability to withstand external pressures, much like a plant with shallow roots cannot survive the scorching sun.
* **dureth for a while (Greek, _próskairos'_):** (G4340) Derived from _pros_ (towards) and _kairos_ (a fixed or opportune time), this word literally means "for the occasion only" or "temporary." It precisely describes the fleeting nature of the faith exhibited by the stony ground hearer. Their belief is not permanent or enduring but conditional upon favorable circumstances, lasting only "for a season" until tested by hardship.
* **tribulation (Greek, _thlîpsis'_):** (G2347) From a verb meaning "to press" or "to crush," this noun denotes pressure, affliction, distress, or anguish. It encompasses both internal and external hardships, difficulties, and suffering that believers encounter. In this verse, it specifically refers to the general hardships that arise as a consequence of one's commitment to the "word."
* **persecution (Greek, _diōgmós'_):** (G1375) This term, from the verb _diōkō_ (to pursue), refers to active pursuit, harassment, or oppression directed against someone. In this context, it signifies targeted hostility, opposition, or suffering specifically experienced "because of the word" – that is, on account of one's identification with Christ and His teachings. It highlights external, hostile opposition that tests faith.
* **offended (Greek, _skandalízō'_):** (G4624) Derived from _skandalon_ (a stumbling block, trap, or snare), this verb means "to cause to stumble," "to entrap," or "to entice to sin, apostasy, or displeasure." Here, it signifies that the tribulation and persecution cause the person to stumble in their faith, to be tripped up, or to fall away from their initial profession, rather than merely being annoyed or inconvenienced.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Yet hath he not root in himself":** This clause immediately identifies the core problem of the stony ground hearer. Their initial reception of the word, though joyful, lacks internal depth and genuine spiritual foundation. There is no deep-seated conviction, personal transformation, or firm commitment that would anchor their faith against adverse conditions. The phrase "in himself" emphasizes that the deficiency is intrinsic to the person's spiritual state, not merely external circumstances.
* **"but dureth for a while":** This phrase describes the temporary nature of their faith. Because the "root" is absent, their belief is superficial and unsustainable. It thrives only in favorable conditions, like a plant that sprouts quickly but has no deep access to water. This temporary endurance is a critical characteristic, distinguishing them from those with genuine, lasting faith.
* **"for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word":** This clause introduces the catalyst that exposes the superficiality of their faith. "Tribulation" (general pressure/affliction) and "persecution" (targeted hostility) are specified as the challenges. Crucially, these difficulties "arise because of the word," meaning they are directly linked to their profession of faith or adherence to Christ's teachings, not just random misfortunes. These trials serve as a test.
* **"by and by he is offended":** This final clause describes the inevitable outcome for the shallow hearer when tested. "By and by" (Greek: _euthýs_) means "immediately" or "at once," indicating a swift reaction to adversity. To be "offended" (Greek: _skandalízō_) means to stumble, to be entrapped, or to fall away from their initial profession of faith. The pressure of tribulation and persecution causes them to abandon their commitment, revealing that their faith was never truly rooted.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in [Matthew 13:21](/matthew/13-21 "Matthew 13:21 - The Stony Ground Hearer") is **Allegory**, as the verse is part of Jesus's explanation of the Parable of the Sower. The entire parable functions as an extended metaphor where elements of a common agricultural scene symbolize spiritual realities. Specifically, **Symbolism** is heavily employed: the "seed" symbolizes the "word of the kingdom," the "stony ground" symbolizes a heart that lacks depth and genuine spiritual root, and the "sun" that causes the plant to wither symbolizes "tribulation or persecution." The phrase "hath he not root in himself" is a powerful **Metaphor** for the absence of deep spiritual conviction and internal resources. The immediate "offended" reaction to adversity also demonstrates a form of **Irony**, as those who initially receive the word with joy are the first to abandon it when the going gets tough.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 13:21 underscores a profound theological truth about the nature of true faith: it is not merely an intellectual assent or an emotional response, but a deep, transformative work that enables endurance through adversity. The "root" symbolizes spiritual depth, drawing sustenance from God's truth and Spirit, which allows faith to withstand the inevitable pressures of living out one's commitment to Christ in a fallen world. This verse serves as a sober warning against superficiality and highlights that genuine discipleship requires perseverance, revealing that trials are not just obstacles but also divine instruments that test and refine the authenticity of one's belief.

* [Luke 8:13](/luke/8-13 "Luke 8:13 - The Stony Ground in Luke's Parable")
* [Hebrews 10:39](/hebrews/10-39 "Hebrews 10:39 - Perseverance of Believers")
* [2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - Persecution for Godliness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 13:21 challenges every hearer of the Gospel to honestly examine the depth and authenticity of their faith. It warns against a superficial Christianity that flourishes only in fair weather but withers under the heat of tribulation or persecution. True faith is not merely an initial burst of enthusiasm but a deep, abiding commitment that has taken root in the heart, drawing sustenance from God's Word and Spirit. This verse calls us to cultivate a resilient faith, understanding that adversity is an expected part of the Christian journey, not an anomaly. It compels us to ask if our faith is rooted in genuine conviction and a transformed life, or if it is merely a shallow response susceptible to being "offended" when the cost of discipleship becomes apparent. We are invited to build our lives on the solid rock of Christ, not on the shifting sands of emotion or convenience, preparing our hearts to endure whatever challenges may arise for the sake of the Word.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does "having root in himself" look like in practical terms for my spiritual life?**
* **How do I respond when "tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word" in my own life? Do I tend to be "offended" or strengthened?**
* **What steps can I take to deepen my spiritual roots and cultivate a more enduring faith?**
* **Am I preparing myself for the inevitable challenges that come with following Christ, or am I expecting an easy path?**

### FAQ

**Does Matthew 13:21 teach that a person can lose their salvation?**

Answer: Matthew 13:21, within the Parable of the Sower, describes individuals who initially receive the "word" with joy but lack deep roots, causing them to fall away when tribulation or persecution arises. The theological interpretation of this verse, particularly concerning eternal security, varies among Christian traditions. Some interpret this as a warning that genuine saving faith must endure, implying that those who fall away never possessed true, saving faith to begin with, as their lack of "root" indicates a superficial, rather than transformative, encounter with the Gospel. Their initial "joy" is seen as an emotional response that never led to a true spiritual birth. Others might argue it points to the possibility of apostasy for those who genuinely believed but did not persevere. Regardless of the specific theological framework, the verse unequivocally emphasizes the necessity of enduring faith and warns against a shallow commitment that cannot withstand the pressures of the world. It highlights that true faith is characterized by perseverance, as seen in passages like [Hebrews 3:14](/hebrews/3-14 "Hebrews 3:14 - Partakers of Christ if we hold fast").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 13:21, though a warning about superficial faith, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in Jesus Himself as the ultimate "root" and enduring foundation. Unlike those who have "no root in himself," Jesus perfectly embodied deep, unwavering commitment to the Father's will, even unto death. He is the true vine, and believers are called to abide in Him, drawing life and sustenance from His inexhaustible source ([John 15:1-5](/john/15-1-5 "John 15:1-5 - Jesus the True Vine")). Where the stony ground hearer "dureth for a while" and is "offended" by tribulation, Christ endured unimaginable suffering and persecution "because of the word" – the word of God's redemptive plan – yet never stumbled ([Hebrews 12:2-3](/hebrews/12-2-3 "Hebrews 12:2-3 - Looking to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith")). His steadfastness in the face of the cross provides the perfect model and the very power for believers to persevere. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus became the solid rock upon which true faith can be built, ensuring that those who are genuinely rooted in Him will not be "offended" but will bear fruit, even amidst the fiercest storms of life ([Matthew 7:24-27](/matthew/7-24-27 "Matthew 7:24-27 - The Wise and Foolish Builders")). He is the one who provides the spiritual "root" that enables His followers to stand firm.

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

Matthew 11:6

And blessed is [he], whosoever shall not be offended in me.

2 Peter 1:8

For if these things be in you, and abound, they make [you that ye shall] neither [be] barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 1:9

But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.

Hosea 6:4

¶ O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness [is] as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away.

John 15:5

I am the vine, ye [are] the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

John 15:7

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

Ephesians 3:17

That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,