Matthew 13:19 Meaning and Explanation
“When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jesus explains the wayside soil as the heart that hears without understanding, from which the evil one snatches the word.
What Does Matthew 13:19 Mean?
Jesus begins unfolding the parable. The seed is the word of the kingdom, and the wayside is the heart that hears it but does not take it in. Where there is no understanding, the wicked one comes and snatches the word away before it can take hold.
The lesson is searching. The word fails to root not because it is weak but because the heart left it lying on the surface. An unguarded, uncomprehending heart is vulnerable to having even good seed stolen. The verse calls the reader to receive the word thoughtfully and prayerfully, pressing it into the soil of the heart so that nothing can carry it off.
Matthew 13:19 in the Original Language
logos (λόγος), 'word' -- a spoken message or account, here the proclaimed message of God's kingdom.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 13:19
What does Matthew 13:19 mean?
Jesus explains the wayside soil as the heart that hears without understanding, from which the evil one snatches the word.