Hearing, in my opinion, is next to sight as one of the most important senses. Many deaf and hard of hearing people go about their day without this sense operating at full capacity and living a full life. When it comes to hearing on a spiritual level, I do not necessarily want to discuss audible sound but understanding and faith-building.
Jesus mentions “he who has ears to hear, let him hear” during four congruent passages in six verses of the gospels. The first, when speaking of John the Baptist, then after the parable of the sower, with the parable of the tares, and when talking about the saltiness of the disciples. The Pulpit Commentary states that the phrase “let him hear “means, “You are all formed by nature to learn God’s commands; answer, therefore, to your powers, and obey him” (Matthew 11:15).
What can we quickly glean from these stories from the Master? John’s arrival marked the forerunning of God’s plan of salvation. He pointed to the One that would come after him without caution or pride. John declared the Lamb of God everywhere, baptizing believers unto repentance.
The parable of the sower shows how the Word is received. There are various ways each individual may accept the Gospel, but only one way yields a harvest. Each individual decides which type of soil they are for nurturing the Word. Will you take the seed, study it until you understand it, and bring forth Spiritual fruit?
The second two passages, I feel, are related. First, the parable of the tares shows us that there may be some evil in this life, but God will sort it out in the end. Secondly, do not be weary in well-doing. Do your best to apply Godly principles to your life and remain excited about our mission!
How is it that we are to hear? According to these verses, become sold out to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, no matter how it is received or who will stand against you! You add value to the Kingdom! You are the flavor of the Savior!
We build our faith by listening to the Word of God. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God (Romans 10:17). Hearing and understanding is the act of the hearer. When the anointed Word of God enters our hearing, or we hear a story of the goodness of God, it leads to God opening more of His Word to us. We cannot help but be affected and act accordingly as the children of the King. Seeking an understanding of the Word ensures that we can identify false doctrines.
In concluding the Gospel take on hearing, there is another section of the Bible that hearing is brought up. In Revelation, chapters 2 and 3, we get a glimpse of the favor afforded the conqueror. The Word declares, “Listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches.” There is a promise and a reward for those who endure until the end. You are an integral part of the Kingdom, and we need you; don’t give up! We’ve come too far to turn back now! Endure, conquer, and enjoy the promises of God forever! Ya hear?!