​Introduction:
1. On this occasion Jesus taught many things through parables (vs.3, 34-35).
2. He began with His "parable of the sower."
3. During His ministry Jesus made many references to farmers and farming.
4. The New Testament letters contain similar references.
5. This brings us to the theme of our lesson -- "we can learn much from farmers and farming."
Discussion:
I. FROM FARMERS AND FARMING WE LEARN HOW TO HEAR GOD'S WORD CORRECTLY
A. The parable of the sower involved a farmer who sowed his seed on 4 types of soil (Matthew 13:4-8).
B. According to Matthew 13:9, the Lord wants us to hear an important spiritual lesson.
C. Jesus explained His parable in Matthew 13:18-23.
1. There are basically 4 ways of hearing God's Word.
2. (vs.23) The correct way is to hear, understand, and bear fruit.
D. Additional instructions are given in Mark 4:24a; Luke 8:18a.
II. FROM FARMERS AND FARMING WE LEARN HOW TO GIVE CORRECTLY
A. We learn from 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 that giving is an act of Christian worship.
B. Additional instructions are revealed in 2 Corinthians 9:6-8.
1. (vs.6) Reaping is based on sowing.
2. (vs.7) Each person is to give as he purposes in his heart.
3. (vs.8) God will abundantly bless those who give generously.
III. FROM FARMERS AND FARMING WE LEARN HOW TO SOW CORRECTLY
A. Paul discussed "sowing and reaping" in Galatians 6:7-10.
B. (vs.7-8) We will reap on the basis of how we sow.
C. Words of encouragement are given in vs.9-10.
1. (vs.9) We must not become weary and give up.
2. (vs.10) We must take advantage of opportunities that are presented to us.
IV. FROM FARMERS AND FARMING WE LEARN HOW TO BE PATIENT
A. Consider the words of wisdom presented in James 5:7-8.
B. The admonition to "be patient" is given twice.
C. We are to be patient until the Lord returns.
D. (vs.7b) The farmer provides a great example of patience.
E. Patience involves establishing or strengthening the heart.
Conclusion:
1. We can certainly learn much from Scriptures that mention farmers and farming.
2. Let us:
a. hear God's Word correctly
b. give generously
c. sow correctly by sowing to the Spirit
d. exercise patience as we look forward to the Lord's return.