The passage before us is the well-known parable of the sower. Many of you are probably familiar with its content, perhaps even with its explanation. The passage breaks down into the three parts: first, Jesus gives the parable in vv. 1–9; in vv. 10–12 he explains why he speaks in parables; and in vv. 13–20 he explains this particular parable. And the big idea that governs the whole passage is the importance of making a proper response to the Word. Ask yourself, “How do I respond to the preaching of the gospel?”