Plant a particular type of seed. Expect the corresponding plant to grow. Yet, scripture reveals this principle does not always hold true when it comes to spiritual matters.

Using the metaphor of plants, the LORD God expressed surprise or at least concern in Jeremiah 2:21 . God had planted Israel as one type of vine. Yet, he found an undesirable vine thriving!

More than just faithfully proclaiming God’s message is required. James claimed that although congregants might hear the same message some could respond in undesirable ways! What makes the difference? James identified one contributor.

Be sure you live out the message and do not merely listen to it and so deceive yourselves.” James 1:22

While accurately understanding God’s word is important, it won’t produce what God desires unless it is put into practice. Throughout his letter, James emphasized this principle. “Do you believe that there is one God? You are doing well but the demons also believe and tremble.” James 2:20 A faith which merely centers around believing true doctrine is dead. James 2:26  Similarly, "If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless. Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” James 1:26-27

An accurate understanding is necessary (1 Tim. 4:16; 2 Tim. 2:2; 4:3-4). Yet such an understanding must erupt in a faith that shapes living.

As Jesus’ parable of the sower illustrates, those sowing the seed cannot force the ground to produce the desired fruit. Weeds might grow. Yet, those sowing can emphasize the value of obedience.

Both Jesus and James emphasized the need for God’s message to germinate and grow; it must be put into practice. Regardless of the motivation, if preaching is silent or devalues obedience, undesirable weeds might be more numerous.

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Barry Newton

Barry has worked with congregations in Texas, California and Brazil. He and his wife Sofia have two sons. He believes we should love God above all and that to honor this principle will shape daily decisions and silence competing values. Furthermore, we ought to love people in those ways we would like to be treated.

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