In his commentary on Luke, while discussing the parable of the sower, Darrell Bock says, “Jesus relates the parable to ‘a large crowd.’ In Luke the mention of a large crowd often means that a warning about not getting carried away about the response follows (cf. 12:1–2)”
There is a lesson here about crowds. Too often Christians view crowds according to their temperament (introvert/extrovert) or the success (or lack of success) of their church or theological tribe. “Large crowds are the sure sign of God’s blessing.” Or, “Large crowds equal compromise.”
The parable of the sower, and the rest of Jesus ministry shows us something different. We should neither worship nor despise crowds of people. He did not. We must look at them more critically. They are both opportunities for for ministry and occasions for temptation.
Bock, Darrell L. Luke. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1996. Print. The NIV Application Commentary.
Photo used by Permission National Archives
MattTroupe.net 