New International VersionBut since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.
New Living TranslationBut since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word.
English Standard Versionyet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away.
Berean Standard BibleBut since he has no root, he remains for only a season. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away.
Berean Literal BibleAnd he has in himself no root, but is temporary. And having come tribulation or persecution on account of the word, immediately he falls away.
King James BibleYet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
New King James Versionyet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.
New American Standard Bibleyet he has no firm root in himself, but is only temporary, and when affliction or persecution occurs because of the word, immediately he falls away.
NASB 1995yet he has no firm root in himself, but is only temporary, and when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he falls away.
NASB 1977yet he has no firm root in himself, but is only temporary, and when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he falls away.
Legacy Standard Bibleyet he has no root in himself, but is only temporary, and when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he falls away.
Amplified Bibleyet he has no [substantial] root in himself, but is only temporary, and when pressure or persecution comes because of the word, immediately he stumbles and falls away [abandoning the One who is the source of salvation].
Christian Standard BibleBut he has no root and is short-lived. When distress or persecution comes because of the word, immediately he falls away.
Holman Christian Standard BibleYet he has no root in himself, but is short-lived. When pressure or persecution comes because of the word, immediately he stumbles.
American Standard Versionyet hath he not root in himself, but endureth for a while; and when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, straightway he stumbleth.
Contemporary English VersionBut they don't have deep roots, and they don't last very long. As soon as life gets hard or the message gets them in trouble, they give up.
English Revised Versionyet hath he not root in himself, but endureth for a while; and when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, straightway he stumbleth.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationSince he doesn't have any root, he lasts only a little while. When suffering or persecution comes along because of the word, he immediately falls [from faith].
Good News TranslationBut 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.
International Standard Versionbut since he doesn't have any root in himself, he lasts for only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes along because of the word, he immediately falls away.
NET BibleBut he has no root in himself and does not endure; when trouble or persecution comes because of the word, immediately he falls away.
New Heart English Bibleyet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while. When oppression or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.
Webster's Bible TranslationYet he hath not root in himself, but endureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, forthwith he is offended.
Weymouth New TestamentIt has struck no root, however, within him. He continues for a time, but when suffering comes, or persecution, because of the Message, he at once stumbles and falls. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleBut since he has no root, he remains for only a season. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away.
World English Bibleyet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while. When oppression or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles. Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionand he has no root in himself, but is temporary, and persecution or tribulation having happened because of the word, immediately he is stumbled.
Berean Literal BibleAnd he has in himself no root, but is temporary. And having come tribulation or persecution on account of the word, immediately he falls away.
Young's Literal Translation and he hath not root in himself, but is temporary, and persecution or tribulation having happened because of the word, immediately he is stumbled.
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd has no root in himself, but is for a time; and there being pressure or expulsion for the word, straightly is he offended. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleYet hath he not root in himself, but is only for a time: and when there ariseth tribulation and persecution because of the word, he is presently scandalized.
Catholic Public Domain VersionBut he has no root in himself, so it is only for a time; then, when tribulation and persecution occur because of the word, he promptly stumbles.
New American BibleBut he has no root and lasts only for a time. When some tribulation or persecution comes because of the word, he immediately falls away.
New Revised Standard Versionyet such a person has no root, but endures only for a while, and when trouble or persecution arises on account of the word, that person immediately falls away. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleBut it has no root in him, except for a while; and when trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he immediately stumbles.
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishBut there are no roots in him, but he is temporal, and when there is distress or persecution because of the word, immediately he falls apart. NT Translations Anderson New TestamentYet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while; and when affliction or persecution arises on account of the word, he immediately takes offense.
Godbey New Testamentbut it has no root in him, but is temporary; and tribulation or persecution arising on account of the word, immediately he is offended.
Haweis New Testament
hath not really root in himself, but is merely temporary: and when tribulation or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately he is stumbled.
Mace New Testament
but having no root in him he has only an occasional faith: for as soon as any oppression or persecution arises upon account of the gospel, he presently relapses.
Weymouth New Testament
It has struck no root, however, within him. He continues for a time, but when suffering comes, or persecution, because of the Message, he at once stumbles and falls.
Worrell New Testament
yet he has not root in himself, but isonly temporary; and, when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, straightway he stumbles.
Worsley New Testament
yet hath he no root in himself,and therefore is but for ashort season; and when affliction cometh, or persecution on account of the word, he isas soon disgusted.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context The Parable of the Sower Explained… 20The seed sown on rocky ground is the one who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21Butsincehe hasnoroot,he remainsfor only a season.Whentroubleorpersecutioncomesbecause oftheword,he quickly falls away.22The seed sown among the thorns is the one who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful.…
Cross References Mark 4:17But they themselves have no root, and they remain for only a season. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.
Luke 8:13The seeds on rocky ground are those who hear the word and receive it with joy, but they have no root. They believe for a season, but in the time of testing, they fall away.
John 15:6If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers. Such branches are gathered up, thrown into the fire, and burned.
James 1:6-8But he must ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. / That man should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. / He is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
1 Peter 1:6-7In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials / so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
1 John 2:19They went out from us, but they did not belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us. But their departure made it clear that none of them belonged to us.
Hebrews 3:12-14See to it, brothers, that none of you has a wicked heart of unbelief that turns away from the living God. / But exhort one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. / We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly to the end the assurance we had at first.
2 Timothy 3:12Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,
Romans 5:3-5Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; / perseverance, character; and character, hope. / And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.
2 Corinthians 4:17For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory that is far beyond comparison.
Acts 14:22strengthening the souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith. “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.
Colossians 1:23if indeed you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope of the gospel you heard, which has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.
Ephesians 3:13So I ask you not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.
1 Thessalonians 3:3-4so that none of you would be shaken by these trials. For you know that we are destined for this. / Indeed, when we were with you, we kept warning you that we would suffer persecution; and as you know, it has come to pass.
Isaiah 40:8The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever.”
Treasury of Scripture Yet has he not root in himself, but endures for a while: for when tribulation or persecution rises because of the word, by and by he is offended. root. Matthew 13:6 And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. Matthew 7:22,23,26,27 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? … Job 19:28 But ye should say, Why persecute we him, seeing the root of the matter is found in me? dureth. Matthew 10:22 And ye shall be hated of allmen for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. Matthew 24:13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. Job 27:8-10 For whatis the hope of the hypocrite, though he hath gained, when God taketh away his soul? … for. Matthew 5:10-12 Blessedare they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven… Matthew 10:37-39 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me… Matthew 16:24-26 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If anyman will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me… is. Matthew 13:57 And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. Matthew 11:6 And blessed ishe, whosoever shall not be offended in me. Matthew 24:9,10 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake… Jump to Previous AccountArisesArisethContinuesDoubtsEnduresEndurethForthwithFullGoesHappensHoweverImmediatelyLastsMessageOffendedOppressionPainPersecutionQuicklyRootShortStraightwayStruckStumbledStumblesStumblethSufferingTimeTribulationWithinWordJump to Next AccountArisesArisethContinuesDoubtsEnduresEndurethForthwithFullGoesHappensHoweverImmediatelyLastsMessageOffendedOppressionPainPersecutionQuicklyRootShortStraightwayStruckStumbledStumblesStumblethSufferingTimeTribulationWithinWordMatthew 13 1.The parable of the sower and the seed;18.the explanation of it.24.The parable of the weeds;31.of the mustard seed;33.of the leaven;36.explanation of the parable of the weeds.44.The parable of the hidden treasure;45.of the pearl;47.of the drag net cast into the sea.53.Jesus is a prophet without honor in his own country.But since he has no rootThis phrase highlights the superficial nature of the individual's faith. In biblical context, roots symbolize depth and stability. Without roots, a plant cannot sustain itself, just as a believer without a deep foundation in faith cannot endure trials. This imagery is consistent with Old Testament references, such as in Jeremiah 17:8, where a tree with deep roots is likened to a person who trusts in the Lord. The lack of root suggests a shallow acceptance of the gospel, without true understanding or commitment. he remains for only a season
The temporary nature of this faith is emphasized here. In the agricultural context of ancient Israel, seasons were crucial for growth and harvest. A plant that lasts only for a season is one that fails to mature and bear fruit. This reflects the transient commitment of some believers who may initially receive the word with joy but do not persevere. This concept is echoed inJohn 15:6, where branches that do not remain in the vine are thrown away and wither. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word
This phrase indicates that the trials faced are specifically due to adherence to the Christian faith. In the early church, persecution was a common experience, as seen inActs 8:1, where believers were scattered due to persecution. The historical context of the Roman Empire, with its pagan practices and emperor worship, often led to Christians being marginalized or persecuted. This serves as a test of genuine faith, distinguishing those who are truly committed from those who are not. he quickly falls away
The rapidity of falling away underscores the lack of genuine faith. This is a warning against a superficial belief that cannot withstand external pressures. The Greek word used here for "falls away" can also mean to stumble or be offended, suggesting that such individuals are easily swayed or disillusioned. This is reminiscent of the parable of the wise and foolish builders inMatthew 7:24-27, where only the house built on the rock withstands the storm. The falling away is a failure to endure, contrasting with the perseverance encouraged inJames 1:12, where those who stand firm under trial are blessed. Persons / Places / Events 1. Jesus ChristThe speaker of the parable, teaching about the Kingdom of Heaven through parables to the crowds and His disciples. 2. The SowerRepresents anyone who spreads the Word of God, though in the broader context, it can be seen as Jesus Himself. 3. The SeedSymbolizes the Word of God, which is sown into the hearts of people. 4. The Rocky GroundRepresents individuals who receive the Word with joy but lack depth and endurance. 5. Trouble or PersecutionChallenges that arise specifically because of one's faith in the Word of God. Teaching Points The Importance of Deep RootsSpiritual depth is crucial for enduring faith. Without a strong foundation in Christ, believers are vulnerable to falling away when faced with trials. Expect and Prepare for PersecutionBelievers should anticipate challenges and persecution as a natural part of their faith journey. Preparation through prayer, study, and community support is essential. Joy in Receiving the WordInitial joy in receiving the Word is important, but it must be accompanied by a commitment to grow deeper in understanding and application. The Role of Community and DiscipleshipBeing part of a faith community and engaging in discipleship can help believers develop deeper roots and provide support during trials. Evaluating Personal FaithRegular self-examination of one's faith and spiritual practices can help identify areas that need strengthening to prevent falling away. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Matthew 13:21?
2.How can we deepen our "root" in faith to withstand tribulation?
3.What causes someone to "fall away" when faced with "persecution"?
4.How does Matthew 13:21 relate to the Parable of the Sower?
5.What practical steps strengthen our faith during trials and challenges?
6.How can we support others struggling with "tribulation or persecution"?
7.What does Matthew 13:21 reveal about the nature of shallow faith during trials?
8.How does Matthew 13:21 challenge believers to deepen their spiritual roots?
9.Why does persecution cause some to fall away according to Matthew 13:21?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Matthew 13?
11.What does "by and by" mean in the Bible?
12.What is the Tribulation?
13.How does failure lead to growth and resilience?
14.Why does Jesus curse a fig tree in Matthew 21:19 for having no fruit when it was not the season for figs?What Does Matthew 13:21 Mean But since he has no rootJesus likens some hearers of the gospel to shallow soil. The seed sprouts quickly, but thin earth cannot nourish deep roots. • Genuine faith must take hold beneath the surface—heart conviction, not mere excitement (Psalm 1:3;Jeremiah 17:8). • Roots develop through ongoing fellowship with Christ (John 15:4-5) and steady intake of the Word (Colossians 2:6-7). • A rootless plant may look healthy at first, yet its weakness is hidden until conditions change (Matthew 13:6).
he remains for only a seasonOutward enthusiasm can last a while—weeks, months, even years—but time exposes superficiality. • Temporary attachment differs from enduring fruitfulness (John 15:6). • True conversion shows perseverance (Hebrews 3:14). • Seasons of growth require consistent spiritual disciplines: prayer, worship, obedience (Acts 2:42-47).
When trouble or persecution comes because of the wordJesus warns that following Him invites resistance. • Trials test the authenticity of faith (1 Peter 1:6-7). • Persecution arises “because of the word,” confirming that opposition targets the gospel itself (2 Timothy 3:12). • Hardship is not abnormal; Jesus promised it (John 16:33). Prepared believers count the cost beforehand (Luke 14:27-33).
he quickly falls awayThe shallow-hearted person abandons professed belief when faith becomes costly. • “Falls away” pictures a stumbling that ends in retreat (Mark 4:17;Luke 8:13). • Contrast: steadfast saints endure, strengthened by grace (James 1:2-4;Revelation 2:10). • The warning urges self-examination: am I rooted in Christ or rooted in comfort? (2 Corinthians 13:5).
summaryMatthew 13:21 exposes the danger of surface-level response to the gospel. Without deep roots—formed by genuine repentance, daily communion with Christ, and reliance on His Word—initial joy cannot withstand the heat of trouble or persecution. Authentic discipleship endures because its life source is Jesus Himself, not shifting circumstances. (21) Yet hath he not root in himself.--The "root" is obviously the conviction which ripens into a purpose and strikes its fibres deep down into reason, conscience, and will. Tribulation or persecution.--It is hardly necessary, or indeed possible, to draw any sharp line of demarcation between the two. "Persecution" implies, perhaps, a more organised attack, and therefore greater suffering; "tribulation," the thousand petty annoyances to which every convert to the faith of Christ was exposed in the first age of the Church, and to which, it may be added, even now most men and women who seek to be Christians in deed as well as in name are at some time or other in their lives exposed. The words explain the "time of temptation" in St. Luke's report (Luke 8:13). By and byhe is offended.--The adverb is the same as the "anon" ofMatthew 13:20, and means "immediately." The rapidity of the renegade matches that of the convert. Such a man finds a "stumbling-block" in the sufferings he is called to endure, and turns into a smoother path. Verse 21. - But dureth for a while ( ἀλλὰπρόσκαιρός ἐστιν). Luke's οἱ πρὸς καιρὸνπιστεύουσιν, is an evidently later form. (For the thought, cf. John 5:35.) By and by;straightway (Revised Version, εὐθύς). He isoffended ( Matthew 5:29, note).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek Butἀλλὰ(alla)Conjunction
Strong's 235:But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.sinceδὲ(de)Conjunction
Strong's 1161:A primary particle; but, and, etc.he hasἔχει(echei)Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 2192:To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.noοὐκ(ouk)Adverb
Strong's 3756:No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.root,ῥίζαν(rhizan)Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4491:A root, shoot, source; that which comes from the root, a descendent. Apparently a primary word; a 'root'.he remainsἐστιν(estin)Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1510:I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.for only a season.πρόσκαιρός(proskairos)Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 4340:For a season, temporary. From pros and kairos; for the occasion only, i.e. Temporary.[When]δὲ(de)Conjunction
Strong's 1161:A primary particle; but, and, etc.troubleθλίψεως(thlipseōs)Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 2347:Persecution, affliction, distress, tribulation. From thlibo; pressure.orἢ(ē)Conjunction
Strong's 2228:Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.persecutionδιωγμοῦ(diōgmou)Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 1375:Chase, pursuit; persecution. From dioko; persecution.comesγενομένης(genomenēs)Verb - Aorist Participle Middle - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 1096:A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.because ofδιὰ(dia)Preposition
Strong's 1223:A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.theτὸν(ton)Article - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.word,λόγον(logon)Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3056:From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.he quickly falls away.σκανδαλίζεται(skandalizetai)Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 4624:From skandalon; to entrap, i.e. Trip up (transitively) or entice to sin, apostasy or displeasure).
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NT Gospels: Matthew 13:21 Yet he has no root in himself (Matt. Mat Mt) |
