Although Alma doesn’t mention it, it is certain that these poor, who are not allowed into the synagogues, were farmers. These were people of the land who understood the process of growing things. Therefore, Alma teaches them with an analogy to which they would easily relate: “We will compare the word unto a seed.”
The beginning of faith was to give place to God’s word. The seed must be planted. A seed kept and stored away may never germinate. Therefore, the beginning action of faith is to plant the seed, to plant God’s word, in one’s soul.
If the seed is good, and the person is good, then the seed begins to grow. Farmers understand that the fact that the seed begins to grow is not the same as the plant bearing fruit. There is a long way from the first stem and leaves pushing through the soil and the mature grain or fruit available to nourish others. Farmers understand patience and continued effort.
How can one know if the hope expressed in giving place to God’s word is true? If it is good, it will grow. If it is not, it will not grow and will be discarded. The proof is in the result. This is the same imagery as in Matthew 7:20: “By their fruits ye shall know them.”