When the Word of God goes out, there are a variety of potential outcomes. This is exactly what Jesus reminds his disciples in Luke 8:4-15 (also in Matthew 13 and Mark 4). Not everyone who hears the Word becomes a disciple. So how can we know if the Word has truly taken root in our lives?
The Bible uses one metaphor repeatedly to help us determine the authenticity of faith: authentic faith bears fruit. Jesus explains that there are a variety of reasons why the Word might not take root…Satan may snatch it away, hardship might crush it underfoot, or temptation for worldly satisfaction could take first place in our hearts.
So how can we be sure we’re the good soil Jesus describes? It requires at least three characteristics:
Faith
For the Word to take root and bear fruit, we must come by faith. The Bible says that without faith, it's impossible to please God, because those who come to Him must actually believe He exists and rewards those who earnestly seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). The good news for the Christian is that even a small amount of faith – faith the size of a mustard seed – is incredibly powerful.
In fact, the writer of Hebrews specifically says of unbelievers: “For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.” Hebrews 4:2
Humility
If we’re not willing to humble ourselves before God and submit to His word, there’s no way it can take root and bear fruit in our lives.
“Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.” James 1:18-21
Commitment
The Bible repeatedly reminds Christians that our life is a marathon, not a sprint; that it requires patience and endurance through hardship and temptation to truly bear fruit. If we’re not committed to God, His Word, and His people for the long term, it’s very likely that the word won’t take root.
