The portion of them on the rock illustrates those who accept the message, bubbling over with joy when they first hear it, but it takes no real root. They believe for awhile, but in the time of testing they fall away.

I tell you, this man, and not the other, went back home forgiven and accepted by God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but whoever humbles himself will be exalted."

I solemnly say to you, Whoever does not accept the kingdom of God as a little child does, will never get into it at all."

He in turn accepted their offer and began to seek a favorable opportunity to betray Him to them without exciting an uprising.