Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "choked" is often used metaphorically to describe the hindrance or suppression of spiritual growth and fruitfulness. This concept is most prominently illustrated in the Parable of the Sower, as recounted in the Synoptic Gospels.Parable of the Sower The Parable of the Sower, found in Matthew 13:1-23, Mark 4:1-20, and Luke 8:4-15, is a key passage where the term "choked" is used. In this parable, Jesus describes a sower who scatters seed, which falls on different types of ground, each representing different responses to the Word of God. The seed that falls among thorns is particularly relevant to the concept of being "choked." In Mark 4:7 , Jesus says, "Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the seedlings, and they yielded no crop." Later, in Mark 4:18-19 , He explains, "Still others are like the seeds sown among the thorns. They hear the word, but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful." Spiritual Implications The imagery of being "choked" by thorns is a powerful metaphor for the spiritual dangers that can impede a believer's growth. The thorns represent various worldly distractions and temptations that can suffocate the Word of God in a person's life. These include: 1. Worries of Life: The anxieties and concerns of daily living can dominate one's thoughts, leaving little room for spiritual reflection and growth. This preoccupation with temporal matters can stifle the transformative power of the Word. 2. Deceitfulness of Wealth: The pursuit of material wealth and the false security it promises can lead individuals away from reliance on God. Wealth can become an idol, diverting attention and devotion away from spiritual priorities. 3. Desires for Other Things: The longing for worldly pleasures and achievements can overshadow the desire for spiritual maturity. These desires can become thorns that entangle and choke the spiritual life, rendering it unproductive. Related Biblical Themes The concept of being "choked" by worldly concerns is echoed in other biblical passages that warn against the dangers of materialism and distraction. In 1 Timothy 6:9-10 , Paul warns, "Those who want to be rich, however, fall into temptation and become ensnared by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil." Similarly, in James 4:4 , believers are cautioned against friendship with the world: "You adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore, whoever chooses to be a friend of the world renders himself an enemy of God." Practical Application For believers, the warning against being "choked" serves as a call to vigilance and prioritization of spiritual matters. It encourages Christians to examine their lives for thorns that may hinder their relationship with God and to cultivate a heart that is receptive to His Word. This involves a conscious effort to focus on eternal values, trust in God's provision, and seek first His kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33). By understanding the metaphor of being "choked," believers are reminded of the importance of nurturing their spiritual lives, ensuring that the Word of God takes root and bears fruit in their hearts. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Choke.Greek 4846. sumpnigo -- to choke ... 4846 (from 4862 , "identified " and 4155 , "choke") -- properly, choke (cut off) -- literally, "choked because joined with.". 4846 ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4846.htm - 7k 4156. pniktos -- strangled 638. apopnigo -- to choke Library Choked Channels. Seed among Thorns The Indwelling Spirit Fully and Forever Satisfying. The First Great Group of Parables. Stories Told by the Lake. One Seed and Diverse Soils Matt. xii. 46-49. The Sower. Sown among Thorns Blessed be that Child, who Gladdened Bethlehem To-Day! Thesaurus Choked (6 Occurrences)... (imp. & pp) of Choke. Multi-Version Concordance Choked (6 Occurrences). Matthew 13:7 Others fell among thorns. The thorns grew up and choked them. ... /c/choked.htm - 8k Choke (6 Occurrences) Thorns (56 Occurrences) Grew (133 Occurrences) Plants (70 Occurrences) Fell (331 Occurrences) Violently (92 Occurrences) Ran (100 Occurrences) Sprung (20 Occurrences) Swine (15 Occurrences) Resources What does it mean that Satan is the accuser? | GotQuestions.orgCan a person believe in some sense but not be saved? | GotQuestions.org Is it possible for a believer to unbelieve? | GotQuestions.org Choked: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Choked (6 Occurrences)Matthew 13:7 Mark 4:7 Mark 5:13 Luke 8:7 Luke 8:14 Luke 8:33 Subtopics Related Terms |
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