Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 13:19

"When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, [then] cometh the evil [one], and snatcheth away that which hath been sown in his heart. This is he that was sown by the way side." — Matthew 13:19 (ASV)

When any one hears, etc. The seed represents the word of God communicated in any manner to the minds of men, by the Scriptures, by preaching, by acts of providence, or by the direct influence of the Holy Spirit.

Then comes the wicked one. That is, Satan (Mark 4:15) or the devil (Luke 8:12), the one eminently wicked, the accuser, the tempter. He is represented by the fowls that came and picked up the seed by the wayside. The gospel is preached to men hardened in sin. It makes no impression. It lies like seed in the hard path; it is easily taken away and never suffered to take root.