17 But it does not sink deep into them, and they don't last long. So when trouble or persecution comes because of the message, they give up at once.
18 Other people are like the seeds sown among the thorn bushes. These are the ones who hear the message,
19 but the worries about this life, the love for riches, and all other kinds of desires crowd in and choke the message, and they don't bear fruit.
20 But other people are like seeds sown in good soil. They hear the message, accept it, and bear fruit: some thirty, some sixty, and some one hundred.”
21 Jesus continued, “Does anyone ever bring in a lamp and put it under a bowl or under the bed? Isn't it put on the lampstand?
22 Whatever is hidden away will be brought out into the open, and whatever is covered up will be uncovered.
23 Listen, then, if you have ears!”