“Our Lord used parables on frequent occasions during his ministry to teach gospel truths. His purpose, however, in telling these short stories was not to present the truths of his gospel in plainness so that all his hearers would understand. Rather it was so to phrase and hide the doctrine involved that only the spiritually literate would understand it, while those whose understandings were darkened would remain in darkness. (Matt. 13:10–17; [JST], Matt. 21:34.) It is never proper to teach any person more than his spiritual capacity qualifies him to assimilate.” (Mormon Doctrine, p. 553.)
To the spiritually illiterate the parable of the soils is a lovely little story. To one in tune with the Spirit and full of understanding of gospel truths, it is far more. Thus, symbolic language can both reveal and conceal truth, depending on the readiness of the individual who hears.
Parables are intended to veil the meaning of what is being taught. On the surface the parable seems simple and uncomplicated.They are a lot deeper than they seem on the surface. Like an onion (or Shrek) they have a lot of layers—more than one possible meaning to a parable. It falls upon the listener and their spiritual preparation, willingness to understand and desire to know more.
Why use them? To make things harder to understand. It was Christ’s merciful way of protecting people. If they didn’t understand a teaching or didn’t put forth the effort to understand it, they couldn’t be held responsible for it. To the dull and uninspired, it is a nice story (Bible dictionary). Those who understand - It is given to you to know the mysteries of heaven. Jesus reveals and conceals at the same time. Have to listen, put forth effort, study it out - rewarded with much more than we thought we would be.
The Holy Ghost helps make the parables meaningful to our own lives. Look at these stories in light of our own lives and problems. What is the possible meaning of the parable? Is there more than one meaning? How does it apply to me today?
Take the Them, There, Then from the scriptures and relate it to the Us, Here, Now
Wayside (Matt 13:4) - hardened hearts or soil where seeds are snatched up quickly
Stony Places (Matt 13:5) - people received the message with gladness of heart but the rocks and lack of roots impede the development of a testimony; they lack the strength necessary to endure trials, tribulations, persecution, and temptations.
Thorny Ground (Matt 13:7) - the soil is good, might be the best that there is, but there are also thorns, weeds, and thistles growing. These thorns and weeds strangle new growth, taking vital nutrients and water. The cares and riches of the world have more allure and your time is taken up by things that are not useful. Some examples of thorns and weeds are: over scheduling sports and activities, electronic devices, video games, social media, the pursuit of money. You must weed your life if you want the word of God to grow.
Good Ground (Matt 13:8) - The condition of the heart of these people suggest they are honest and good. They hear the word of God, keep the commandments, understand the gospel, bring forth fruit, and endure to the end.
Jesus never said that they hard-packed soil, the rocky soil, or the thorny soil could not be changed, dug up, or broken up.