The most simple and comprehensive of the many parables or object-lessons which Jesus gave to the multitudes and his disciples, is that of the "Sower who went forth to sow."
Agriculture was the common occupation of a large portion of his hearers. Although methods of tilling the soil differ now, it is still conceded that in order to secure a good crop, much attention must be given to the preparation and quality of the soil, as well as the necessity of planting well-ripened, perfect seed. The hap-hazard farmer who trusts to luck is never a successful one. Right methods, and the faithful carrying out of them, is the keynote of success. Jesus illustrated this by the parable mentioned.
When the seed was thrown indiscriminately and without due preparation of the soil, the crop was a failure.
