We can sometimes search needlessly for answers to the question: “Why do churches collapse under Satanic attack? When a congregation hides from affliction or persecution it should surprise no one that it is filled with shallow-faithed Christians. When persecution does come, and it inevitably does, its scorching heat causes it to shrivel up and die.
The Seed landing on the Rocky Soil forms the second warning in Jesus’ Parable of the Sower (Mt.13). Jesus is likening a Christian’s heart to the shallow soil that lies amongst the rocks. Though the Word of God is received with joy, this thin layer of temporary excitement is all there is to it. With no depth of conviction, there is no way to become rooted and grounded in love (Eph.3:17). The rapid growth brings promise of greater things, but maturity unto fruitfulness is beyond its chosen state.
Faith is built on the Word of God (Rom.10:17). The Word of God calls us to a risen Saviour. One who bore our sins on a cruel cross. Along with the sweet blessings of fellowship God promises that “all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2Tim.3:12).
The shallow-faithed Christian lives for the Blessing-Zone. Survival is about avoiding conflict and pain, and trials and temptations need not be taken too seriously. Also, and most importantly, any deep thoughts or emotions expended are beyond his ‘sign-up conditions.’
When he is finally cornered and assaulted by the troubles that accompany faith, he falls back into Satan’s hands.
Christians are designed to be robust and durable. They welcome persecution as a sign of righteous living. By it they emulate the Lord and the saints of old. And by it, “theirs is the Kingdom of heaven” (Mt.5:10).
John Staiger
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