Everyone loves a good story — and Jesus was the greatest storyteller who ever told. This summer, we’re exploring the parables: simple, memorable stories with eternal weight. These are not just tales to entertain, but truths to transform. Through them, Jesus invites us to see the world differently, to hear with new ears, and to live in light of His kingdom. Stories are memorable and can be powerful teaching tools. The Bible is filled with stories that teach us truths about God, how we should relate to Him, and how to relate to each other. We begin this week with the parable of “The Sower”. As Jesus shares this parable, he tells us why he teaches in parables and invites us to open our ears and eyes to truly hear and see. Through “The Sower”, Jesus reveals how various types of people respond to His word, but also provides warnings about the challenges that accompany the life of faith. How will we live a life that yields fruit? This parable opens our way to further understanding and insight. Here is our outline: I. The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-9) II. Why Parables? (Matthew 13:10-16) How is my hearing and understanding? III. The Parable of the Sower Explained (Matthew 13:17-23) How do I stand under persecution? Am I distracted by anything? What kind of soil am I? Questions for Children Understand the Story What was the farmer doing in Jesus’ story? What happened to the seeds that fell on the path? The rocks? The thorns? The good soil? Which kind of soil do you think grew the best plants? Why? Live the Story What are some things that can distract us from listening to God? What helps you grow closer to Jesus — like water helps plants grow? Can you think of one way you could be “good soil” this week? (Listening, obeying, praying, being kind, etc.)