¹⁸ The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God’s word,

¹⁴ The seeds that fell among the thorns represent those who hear the message, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the cares and riches and pleasures of this life. And so they never grow into maturity.

²² The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced.

Coming Judgment against Judah

³ This is what the Lord says to the people of Judah and Jerusalem:

⁷ Other seed fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants so they produced no grain.