What does it mean to have ears to hear in the Gospel?

In the context of the gospel, the phrase 'having ears to hear' signifies the spiritual insight bestowed by God to truly grasp the truth of His word. As demonstrated in Acts 2, where the listeners were pricked in their hearts, this response comes from the Holy Spirit enabling them to recognize their need for salvation. Conversely, the Pharisees in Acts 7 heard the same message yet reacted with anger, revealing that their hearts were hardened. The difference lies in God's sovereign work of regeneration which grants true understanding and embrace of the gospel, moving hearts from apathy or hostility to faith and repentance.