Mark 4:1-20 // The Parable of the Sower // Pastor Jeremy Olfert
May 24, 2026
READ MARK 4:1-20
Consider these questions when reflecting on this message:
In what ways have you evidenced the different types of soils —both in the world around you and maybe in your own life as well?
What are some “external pressures” (people, culture, trials) that most challenge your faith, and how can you intentionally prepare to stand firm in them?
In what ways might the “cares of the world” (success, comfort, approval, etc.) be crowding out your spiritual growth, and what is one step you can take this week to address that?
Think about a time when your faith was tested. Did it reveal strong roots or shallow roots? What helped—or would have helped—you stay rooted in Christ?
What does “bearing fruit” look like practically in your life right now (relationships, character, priorities), and where do you sense God calling you to grow?
The passage reminds us that God is the one who transforms the soil of our hearts. What is one honest prayer you need to bring to Him this week about your spiritual condition?
How does Jesus' teaching on the kingdom (how it will come, how it will grow, the nature of it) help you to make sense of what you see around you in the world? How would that have encouraged the disciples? How does it encourage you?