The Seed Within

Mark recorded one of the most important insights that Jesus offered us when He said concerning the disciples not understanding the the parable of the sower, that if they didn't understand that, than how could they understand any parables? In other words, How could they understand the kingdom of God, which the parable talks about?

Right before he made the comments, Jesus told them that the secret of the kingdom of God had been given to them. Who was them? It wasn't only the twelve, but the account includes the others. It's always those that are centered around Christ.

Concerning the Kingdom, remember that Jesus also said that the Kingdom of God was within us. That's what this parable is talking about.

Jesus is that seed; the kingdom of God planted within us. One thing to understand about this seed is that it is absolutely perfect. The seed cannot be improved upon - he lives within those that believe.

The issue is never the seed, it's always the ground. That's why Jesus said that if they didn't understand this parable, they could never understand the rest of them either. It always has to do with the heart of God's people as to how much of the seed of Christ will grow and be fruitful.
Again, remember that the Jesus is that seed and he is a perfect seed.

Does this mean that through straining to have a good heart we can make this happen? No! But, when Jesus initiates Himself within us, we have the opportunity to respond. That response only can come because of the Lord Himself - only He can empower us ... but we must give Him room to.

All we can do is ask Him to keep our hearts open and encourage and remind one another to keep our hearts open to Him within us - and to Him within one another.

This is the story of how the bride emerges out of Christ. She came out of Him and He then dwelt within her and shines forth from within her to show forth all that He is. It all starts from seed being planted within good ground.