Elder Marvin J. Ashton of the Council of the Twelve, in his October 1978 general conference address, spoke of the parable of the sower (Matt. 13:3-8, 18-23) and gave prevalent conditions that cause people today to "lose the harvest":

1. Unwillingness to accept human qualities. Elder Ashton said Jesus was rejected in Nazareth because people knew him. "Today some are sowing seeds on stony places because they, too, doubt the authority of those who give counsel and direction."We, too, should not be deceived by doubters who would use the same tactics by planting thorns to destroy the harvest. How can we avoid crop failure in this area of concern? By not allowing our roots to be withered away by winds and storms of: `Is not this the one who was raised in Arizona?' . . . `Go to our new bishop for counsel? Is not he the one who lives just up the street?' "

2. Unwillingness to accept change. "If our roots are deep, we will welcome continuing revelation, change and direction. We will develop the ability to accept releases, callings and new challenges with enthusiasm. We will be too busy to be offended . . . too big to be hurt. We will serve wherever we are called. . . . We will accept people for what they are and what they can and do become. Change will not only drive our roots deeper but cause them to grow into new and fertile soil."

3. Unwillingness to follow instructions. "These are they who may forfeit the harvest because they will not be obedient. `Hearing they hear not, neither do they understand' is the description the parable of the sower uses. . . . "

4. Unwillingness to be totally committed. "[TheseT are those without commitment or testimony . . . who would be convenience members. Some testimonies spring up quickly and flourish for a while until the heat comes on or a stony place is encountered. Then the withering starts to take place. . . . Deep and enduring testimonies grow and strengthen as they are daily nurtured. They increase as they are shared. Meaningful testimonies have roots planted in fertile soil. The sun, the rain, and even the storms make them stronger and more durable. As the events of daily life come upon us, some testimonies wither under the heat of everyday occurrences. Roots are shallow, testimonies, fade, and there is no harvest."

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Articles on this page may be used in conjunction with the Gospel Doctrine course of study.

Information compiled by Gerry Avant

Sources: Jesus the Christ, by Elder James E. Talmage; Mormon Doctrine, by Elder Bruce R. McConkie; and October 1978 general conference report.