And all began together to excuse them. The first said [to him], I have bought a town, and I have need to go out, and see it; I pray thee, have me excused.
To whom shall I speak, and to whom shall I say witnessing, that he hear? Lo! the ears of them be uncircumcised, and they may not hear; lo! the word of the Lord is made to them into despite, and they shall not receive it.
But that that fell among thorns, be these that heard, and of busy-nesses, and riches, and lusts of life they go forth, and be strangled, and bring forth no fruit.