Reasons Why Professed Christians Fail To See or Grasp The Doctrines Of Grace

[atpollard]

In the parable of the sower, the SEED (gospel) is broadcast to everyone within reach, but most will not allow it to take root (reject God’s offer). Only in the GOOD SOIL can the seed (gospel) grow to bear the fruit of new life (salvation). As any farmer or gardener can tell you, it is the FARMER and not the SOIL that breaks the hard ground, removes the stones, and kills the weeds to transform the soil and make it “good soil”.

That is the essence of the Doctrines of Grace … the belief that the FARMER makes the soil “good” rather than the SOIL makes itself “good soil”.

 

[Ben1445]

In the parable of the sower, the SEED (gospel) is broadcast to everyone within reach, but most will not allow it to take root (reject God’s offer). Only in the GOOD SOIL can the seed (gospel) grow to bear the fruit of new life (salvation). As any farmer or gardener can tell you, it is the FARMER and not the SOIL that breaks the hard ground, removes the stones, and kills the weeds to transform the soil and make it “good soil”.

That is the essence of the Doctrines of Grace … the belief that the FARMER makes the soil “good” rather than the SOIL makes itself “good soil”.

So Paul who planted had to prepare the soil?

Or is there some responsibility on the part of the hearer?

Luke 8:18
Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.

 

[Ben1445]

So Paul who planted had to prepare the soil?

Or is there some responsibility on the part of the hearer?

Luke 8:18
Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.

It is very clear in Scripture that the owners of the fields and vineyards, let out the work to others.
We are given the responsibility of the farm work. We are given the responsibilities of sowing.

1 Corinthians 3:6
I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.

There is responsibility for the ground to prepare itself.

James 4:8
Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

This parable is often used in reference to salvation but it is far more effective to be applied, as I believe was intended, to the giving of the Word of God at anytime on any subject.
Sometimes we pay attention with interest and God’s Word is fruitful in our lives. Sometimes we let the cares of the world choke out the Word. Sometimes we don’t let it take root, and sometimes we don’t even absorb it.

Jesus said, “Take heed therefore how ye hear.”

 

[atpollard]

So Paul who planted had to prepare the soil?

Paul was a great man, but he was not God.
God removes the heart of stone and replaces it with a heart of flesh.
God opened the heart of Lydia to hear the words of Paul.

 

[Ben1445]

Paul was a great man, but he was not God.
God removes the heart of stone and replaces it with a heart of flesh.

This is salvation.

God opened the heart of Lydia to hear the words of Paul.

My point was that you are not applying the parable faithfully to the teaching.
I knew you didn’t mean Paul. Paul was a man like we are. Paul was greatly used by the great God.
In reference to Israel, God is given the credit for planting the vineyard. In the NT and even in the Old, laborers are employed. God is the owner, not the laborer.
I am grateful for God working in hearts. It doesn’t take away our responsibility or ability to respond to His Word.

 

[Salty]

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