Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 8:12

"And those by the way side are they that have heard; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word from their heart, that they may not believe and be saved." — Luke 8:12 (ASV)

Jesus now returns to the parable, explaining why the proclaimed word of God fails to bring a uniform response of faith. Luke’s inclusion of the clause “so that they may not believe and be saved” reflects his intense concern regarding salvation; the devil intends to do everything possible to keep us from salvation.