And they all with one accord began to make excuses. The first said to him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I really have to go and see it: I pray you have me excused.
To whom shall I speak, and give warning, that they may hear? behold, their ear is uncircumcised, and they cannot listen: behold, the word of the LORD is to them a reproach; they have no delight in it.
And that which fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go on, and are choked with concerns and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.