Matthew 13:21

Matthew 13:21 is a crucial verse within Jesus's explanation of the Parable of the Sower, illuminating why some who initially respond to the Gospel message do not persevere. It describes the fate of the seed that fell on stony ground.

Context

This verse is part of Jesus's detailed interpretation of the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:3-9), which He later explains privately to His disciples (Matthew 13:18-23). The parable describes different types of soil, representing various responses to "the word of the kingdom" (Matthew 13:19). Verse 21 specifically addresses the second type of soil, the "stony places" described in Matthew 13:5-6, where the seed sprang up quickly but withered because it had no root.

Key Themes

• Superficial Faith: The individual represented by the stony ground receives the word with joy but lacks true spiritual depth. Their faith is shallow, without a firm foundation.
• Lack of Root: The phrase "hath he not root in himself" is central. This implies an absence of deep conviction, personal commitment, or a transformative work of the Spirit that would anchor their belief. It's a surface-level acceptance.
• Testing by Adversity: The verse highlights that "tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word." These challenges act as a test, revealing the true nature of one's faith. They are not random misfortunes but afflictions directly related to one's commitment to Christ and His teachings.
• Temporary Endurance: Such faith "dureth for a while" (proskairos in Greek, meaning "for a season" or "temporary"). It's not designed to last through difficult times.
• Stumbling and Falling Away: When difficulties come, the person "is offended" (skandalizomai in Greek). This doesn't mean merely annoyed; it means to stumble, to be entrapped, or to fall away from their initial profession of faith due to the pressure.

Linguistic Insights

• "Root" (ῥίζα - rhiza): This Greek word emphasizes the essential foundation and source of life for a plant. Without a deep root, a plant cannot draw sufficient moisture and nutrients, making it vulnerable. Spiritually, it signifies a lack of deep understanding, personal conviction, or genuine transformation that can sustain faith through hardship.
• "Dureth for a while" (πρόσκαιρος - proskairos): This term literally means "for a season" or "temporary." It perfectly captures the fleeting nature of this superficial faith, which thrives only in favorable conditions.
• "Tribulation" (θλίψις - thlipsis): This word denotes pressure, affliction, or distress. It refers to the internal and external pressures believers face.
• "Persecution" (διωγμός - diogmos): This refers to active pursuit, harassment, or oppression, specifically because of one's adherence to the "word" (the Gospel).
• "Offended" (σκανδαλίζομαι - skandalizomai): Derived from skandalon (a stumbling block or trap), this word means "to cause to stumble," "to fall away," or "to lose faith." It indicates that the trials cause them to abandon their profession of faith rather than strengthen it.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a sober warning and a call to self-examination for all who claim faith in Christ:

• Examine Your Roots: Are your spiritual roots deep, drawing strength from the Word of God and a genuine relationship with Him? Or is your faith merely an emotional response to favorable circumstances? Jesus's parable of the wise and foolish builders in Matthew 7:24-27 also stresses the importance of a solid foundation.
• Prepare for Adversity: Tribulation and persecution are inevitable for those who follow Christ (John 16:33, 2 Timothy 3:12). This verse teaches that these trials reveal the true nature of our faith, rather than creating it.
• Cultivate Endurance: True faith is characterized by perseverance, even through suffering. The Bible often commends those who endure to the end (Matthew 24:13).
• Beware of Superficiality: Initial enthusiasm is good, but it must be followed by a commitment to grow in knowledge and obedience, allowing the "word" to penetrate deeply into the heart and life.