Luke 8:14

that which fell among thorns are they Here the grand paradox which identifies the seed with its recipient is very marked. See especially Matthew 13, where "he that received the seedby the way side, &c." should be "he that was sownby the way side, &c." The class here described are worldly, ambitious, preoccupied, luxurious listeners who feel the "expulsive power" of earthly careers and pleasures crowding out the growth of the good seed. The former class was more superficially touched; this class have not "broken up their fallow ground," and therefore "sow among thorns."

cares Catullus talks of -sowing thornycares in the heart."

riches "the deceitfulnessof riches" (Matt.. Mk.).

bring no fruit to perfection Literally, "do not perfect" (anything).