IS THERE A PROBLEM WITH MY HEART?

                                                        Mark 4:1-9,14-20 (733-734)

    Introduction

          A.  If you suspected that you had a problem with your heart, would you make an

                appointment with a doctor?  Would your concern be, “Is there a serious problem with

                my heart?”

          B.  Jesus has been referred to as the Great Physician.  Hymn number 615, v1.  Let’s

                ascertain from the Great Physician if there is a serious problem with our heart.

          C.  We will use the Parable of the Sower as a basis for our lesson.  Mark 4:1-9, 14-20 (733

                1.  The sower represents Jesus.  The seeds represents the word of God.  The different

                     types of soil represent the hearts of people.

      I.  Do I have a hard heart?  (A heart that is non-receptive) vv4,15

          A.  Explanation of the soil:

          B.  This type of heart isn’t receptive to the word and satan steals the word from the

                heart. V15

    II.  Do I have a stony heart? (A heart that has no root)  vv5-6

          A.  Explanation of the soil:      

          B.  This type of heart receives the word but no permanent impression is produced and

                when tribulations come the heart is offended.  Vv 16-17

   III.  Do I have a crowded heart? (A heart that has no room) v7

          A.  Explanation of the soil:

          B.  This type of heart receives the word but its so full of worldly cares and desires that

                It is unfruitful.  Vv18-19

   IV.  Do I have a good heart? (A heart that bears fruit)  v8

          A.  Explanation of the soil:

          B.  This type of heart accepts the word of God and bears fruit.  V20

    V.  Do I have a serious heart problem?  If so, you need heart surgery.

          A.  Repent.  Luke 13-1-5 (765).  Repentance is the ____________ up of

                ones will in order to do God’s will.

          B.  Accept God’s word by faith.  Romans 10:17 (836)

          C.  ApplyGod’s word and bear fruit.  John 15:1-8 (794)

  Conclusion:  Invitation.  Matthew 28:18-20 (730)