²⁰ As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy,

³¹ They come to you as people come, and they sit before you as my people, and they hear your words, but they will not obey them. For flattery is on their lips, but their heart is set on their gain.^{[a](A) 32} To them you are like a singer of love songs,^[b] one who has a beautiful voice and plays well on an instrument; they hear what you say, but they will not do it.

³⁵ He was a burning and shining lamp, and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light.^(A)

²⁰ for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he protected him. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed,^[a] and yet he liked to listen to him.^(A)

² Joash did what was right in the sight of the Lord all the days of the priest Jehoiada.^(A)

¹⁴ though my condition put you to the test, you did not scorn or despise me but welcomed me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus. ¹⁵ What has become of the goodwill you felt? For I testify that, had it been possible, you would have torn out your eyes and given them to me.

¹³ Even Simon himself believed. After being baptized, he stayed constantly with Philip and was amazed when he saw the signs and great miracles that took place.^(A)