The phrase “They Had No Deepness of Earth” originates from Jesus’ Parable of the Sower, found in Matthew 13:5-6, 20-21. It describes a seed that falls on rocky soil, where it quickly sprouts but withers under the sun because it lacks deep roots. This parable serves as a profound metaphor for people who receive God’s Word with enthusiasm but fail to develop a lasting, rooted faith.
In this topic, we will explore:
✅ The meaning of "They Had No Deepness of Earth"
✅ The spiritual implications of shallow faith
✅ How to develop deep spiritual roots
✅ Biblical lessons from this passage
1. The Meaning of "They Had No Deepness of Earth"
The phrase comes from Matthew 13:5-6 (KJV):
"Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away."
This describes seeds falling on rocky soil-they sprout quickly, but because the soil is shallow, the plants die under the sun’s heat.
What Does This Represent?
Jesus later explains in Matthew 13:20-21 that the rocky soil represents people who:
➡️ Receive the Word of God with joy but have no depth
➡️ Have faith for a short time but fall away in trials
➡️ Do not develop spiritual roots, making them unstable
This metaphor teaches an essential lesson: Faith must be deeply rooted to survive hardships.
2. The Danger of a Shallow Spiritual Life
Many people experience spiritual enthusiasm but struggle to sustain it. This happens for several reasons:
1. Emotion Without Commitment
Some respond to God’s Word emotionally but fail to commit fully. Their faith is based on feelings rather than deep conviction.
Luke 14:27 – "Whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple."
True faith requires commitment, even when emotions fade.
2. Lack of Biblical Knowledge
Without strong biblical understanding, faith remains weak. People without deep spiritual knowledge struggle when confronted with doubt or false teachings.
Hosea 4:6 – "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge."
Studying Scripture nourishes faith and helps believers grow spiritually.
3. Fear of Persecution or Hardship
Jesus warns that shallow believers fall away when tested:
Matthew 13:21 – "When tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, by and by he is offended."
Faith must be strong enough to endure trials, criticism, or hardships.
4. Worldly Distractions
Many people start with faith but allow life’s worries, success, or materialism to pull them away from God.
Mark 4:19 – "The cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful."
A deep spiritual life requires focus on eternal things rather than temporary distractions.
3. How to Develop Deep Spiritual Roots
To avoid being like the seeds on rocky ground, believers must cultivate deep faith. Here’s how:
1. Build a Strong Relationship with God
Developing deep faith requires personal commitment to daily prayer, worship, and devotion.
Jeremiah 29:13 – "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
A personal connection with God creates lasting faith.
2. Study the Bible Consistently
Spiritual depth comes from knowing God’s Word. Regular Bible reading, study, and meditation strengthen faith.
Psalm 1:2-3 – "But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in his law doth he meditate day and night… and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."
A strong biblical foundation prevents spiritual weakness.
3. Stay Rooted in a Church Community
Believers grow stronger together. A faithful church community provides encouragement, teaching, and accountability.
Hebrews 10:25 – "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another."
Christian fellowship nurtures spiritual depth.
4. Develop Spiritual Endurance
Faith is tested through trials, challenges, and suffering. A deep-rooted believer remains steadfast through hardships.
James 1:2-3 – "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance."
Difficulties strengthen faith, making it more resilient.
5. Serve Others with Love
Faith grows when it is put into action. Serving others demonstrates and strengthens true faith.
James 2:17 – "Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."
A deep-rooted believer lives out their faith daily.
4. Biblical Examples of Shallow vs. Deep Faith
1. Peter’s Initial Weakness vs. His Later Strength
Before: Peter denied Jesus three times under pressure (Matthew 26:69-75).
After: He became a bold leader, willing to die for Christ (Acts 2:14-41).
Lesson: Spiritual growth takes time-faith deepens with commitment.
2. The Rich Young Ruler vs. The Apostle Paul
The Rich Young Ruler (Matthew 19:16-22) walked away from Jesus because of his wealth.
Paul gave up everything for Christ and endured great suffering (Philippians 3:8).
Lesson: Spiritual depth requires sacrifice and commitment.
5. The Eternal Consequences of Shallow Faith
What Happens to Those with No Deepness of Earth?
According to Jesus’ parable, those with shallow faith fall away and miss out on eternal rewards.
Matthew 7:26-27 – "Everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand."
A weak foundation leads to spiritual collapse.
God’s Call to Spiritual Growth
God desires every believer to grow deep roots in Him. He invites all to develop strong, lasting faith:
Colossians 2:6-7 – "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith."
Faith must be cultivated daily-just like a healthy plant needs deep soil to thrive.
Strengthen Your Roots in Christ
The phrase “They Had No Deepness of Earth” serves as a powerful warning to all believers. Faith that is shallow may appear strong at first, but it will not survive trials, temptations, or distractions.
To develop deep and lasting faith:
✅ Commit fully to God
✅ Study His Word daily
✅ Stay connected to a strong church community
✅ Persevere through challenges
✅ Live out your faith with action
By doing so, you will ensure that your spiritual roots grow deep, allowing your faith to stand firm and thrive in all circumstances.