Note that which is said, “is straightway offended.” There is then some difference between him who, by many tribulations and torments, is driven to deny Christ, and him who at the first persecution is offended, and falls away, of which He proceeds to speak, “That which is sown among thorns.” To me He seems here to express figuratively that which was said literally to Adam; “Amidst briers and thorns thou shalt eat they bread,” [Gen 3:18] that he that has given himself up to the delights and the cares of this world, eats heavenly bread and the true food among thorns.
Reproduced in full. Translation: Oxford 1841 (Newman), public domain (Public domain).