Hearing and Perceiving
Learning to Listen to Jesus
Based on Rev. Emily’s Sermon
Scripture: Psalm 119:105–112; Matthew 13:1–17
Introduction
Have you ever listened to someone speak but later realized you couldn’t remember what they said? We all hear countless sounds and conversations every day, but hearing words is not the same as truly listening.
In Matthew 13, Jesus challenges us to move beyond simply hearing His words. He calls us to hear, see, and perceive God’s truth with open hearts. His parables were not designed to confuse sincere seekers. Rather, they invited people to think deeply, ask questions, and continue growing in their understanding of God’s kingdom.
Hearing Is More Than Listening
When Jesus finished telling the Parable of the Sower, He said,
“He who has ears, let him hear.” (Matthew 13:9, NASB 1995)
Everyone listening had physical ears. Jesus was speaking about spiritual hearing.
Some people heard only another story about a farmer scattering seed.
Others recognized that Jesus was revealing truths about God’s kingdom.
The difference was not in the story. The difference was in the condition of the listener’s heart.
God still speaks today through His Word, but we must be willing to listen with hearts that are open to His teaching.
Why Did Jesus Teach in Parables?
The disciples asked Jesus why He spoke in parables.
Jesus explained that those who sincerely sought God would continue asking, thinking, and learning. Those who were unwilling to listen would hear only interesting stories without grasping their deeper meaning.
Parables were invitations to discover truth.
Rev. Emily compared them to puzzles and mystery stories. A good mystery isn’t solved in the first chapter. As we continue reading, more pieces begin to fit together until the whole story becomes clear.
Likewise, our understanding of God grows as we continue walking with Christ.
It’s Good to Ask Questions
Sometimes people worry that asking questions is a sign of weak faith.
The disciples asked questions.
The prophets asked questions.
Even the Psalms contain many honest questions directed toward God.
Questions do not always express doubt. Often they express a sincere desire to know God more fully.
As we study Scripture, participate in worship, and discuss God’s Word with other believers, the Holy Spirit continues to deepen our understanding.
God welcomes hearts that sincerely seek Him.
Learning Together
Jesus taught in community.
His disciples listened together, discussed His teaching together, and learned together.
Rev. Emily reminded us that we should continue reflecting on Sunday’s sermon throughout the week. Discussing Scripture with family members, friends, Sunday School classes, or Bible studies often helps us notice truths we might otherwise miss.
Faith grows stronger when believers encourage one another.
God’s Word Guides Our Steps
Psalm 119 reminds us,
“Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105, NASB 1995)
In biblical times, a small oil lamp provided enough light for the next few steps—not the entire journey.
God often leads us the same way.
He may not reveal every detail of the future, but He faithfully provides the wisdom we need for today’s next step of obedience.
As we continue following Christ, His direction becomes clearer.
Hearing, Seeing, and Perceiving
Near the end of this passage, Jesus tells His disciples,
“But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear.” (Matthew 13:16, NASB 1995)
Their blessing was not that they knew everything.
Their blessing was that they were willing to keep learning.
God desires more than people who simply hear sermons.
He desires disciples who allow His Word to shape their thoughts, attitudes, decisions, and daily lives.
Living the Message
This week, don’t let Sunday’s worship remain only a Sunday memory.
Read the Scripture again.
Reflect on the sermon.
Ask questions.
Talk about God’s Word with another believer.
Pray for understanding.
As you continue seeking Christ, He will continue teaching you.
Reflection Questions
How do you prepare your heart before reading God’s Word or attending worship?
Are you willing to ask honest questions as you grow in your faith?
What distractions keep you from truly hearing God’s voice?
How can you continue reflecting on Sunday’s sermon throughout the week?
What is one next step of obedience God is calling you to take?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for speaking through Your Word. Give me ears that truly hear, eyes that see Your truth, and a heart that is willing to receive all You want to teach me. Help me continue growing as a disciple of Jesus Christ. May Your Word guide my steps each day and transform my life for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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