Let’s explore the parable of the Mustard Seed. It describes the growth of God’s Kingdom. From the sowing of the tiniest herb seed comes forth one of the greatest sized herb plants. So is it with the Kingdom of God.
Matthew 13:31-32 (KJV)
31 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: 32 Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof.
Mark 4:30-32 (KJV)
30 And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it? 31 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth: 32 But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it.
Luke 13:18-19 (KJV)
18 Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it? 19 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it.
Jesus begins the Parable of the Mustard Seed by saying the Kingdom of God is like to a grain of a mustard seed. So the parable can be applied to aspects of the Kingdom of God…
There is a consensus that the parable of the Mustard Seed is both a warning and a prediction.
Growth of the Church
Modest Beginnings
He uses the idea of the small seed to represent the modest beginnings. A seed so small that initially it appears insignificant and is not noticed. But as the word of God and the message of Salvation spreads the Church builds and grows. And like the Mustard Seed ultimately grows into a life of its own. The growth brings a great responsibility to maintain spiritual purity in it’s doctrine and its administration.
Teaching As Seed
The spread of the teachings of Jesus on earth is the Mustard Seed which through dissemination to the multitudes grows the Church. It begins small as Jesus and his disciples. However the purity of his divine messages cause the tremendous outreach to spring forth. Because his message is so powerful it remains even against the enemies opposition. Ultimately, it will continue to grow at such a rate that it attracts the attention and threatens the Evil one who will attempt to confuse and destroy it.
Growth
But the power in the word and the power in the Spirit will protect it and it’s growth will continue for Such is the Kingdom of Heaven…
Growth of Faith
Seed of Faith
It can begin as a small seed, as a suggestion to believe. Maybe by watching others or by an experience.
Watch it Grow
But with time and patience it begins to grow. The faith increases as you mature in the Lord. Through prayer and study of scripture the seed of faith begins to sprout. It’s leaves become stronger and larger.
Its Shade is Your Protection
With the proper care and nurturing it expands so much that it’s shade becomes your protection. Faith is a choice…
Such is the Kingdom of Heaven.
Growth of Love
Love As Seed
The love in the heart of the believer also starts out small. While we are consumed with self our love is reflected back. But with maturity in faith comes focus away from ones self to others. Suddenly we can see the needs of others. We can feel the emotions of those around us.
With Faith Love Grows
And the love we feel begins to grow. Our love increases the more we grow in understanding and compassion. It continues to increase the more we grow in devotion and prayer.
Love A Force For Good
Ultimately, like the mustard seed it sprouts and grows large enough to become a force for good in our obedience to God.
Such is the Kingdom of Heaven.
Working In Tandem
- Kingdom of Heaven – Wheat and Tares – Matthew 13:24-30
- The Leaven – Matthew 13:33-34
In Conclusion
So in conclusion, the parable of the Mustard Seed is used to provide a simple concept. An answer to a question. A way to help us understand the workings of the Kingdom of Heaven. Though the concept is simple it can be applied to a number of aspects that relate to God’s Kingdom. It is the representation of a clear way to describe the bigger picture.
From the planting of the tiniest seed on earth comes forth a great tree that becomes a beloved addition to…The Kingdom of Heaven.
For the Love of God,
Sparks
