The Parable of the Mustard Seed Matthew 13:31-32

The Kingdom Would Have a Small Beginning Kingdom compared to the mustard seed 20,000 seeds to make one ounce Produces a very large plant Can grow 10-12 feet in a few weeks As a tiny seed will grow into the largest of garden plants, so God’s kingdom will produce many people who truly believe!

The Mustard Seed The Plant Proverbial Uses The smallest of seeds 10-15 feet in height Shelter for birds Proverbial Uses Used frequently to describe anything that is small in its beginning

Mustard Seed Faith! Matthew 17:20 So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.”

The Meaning of the Parable Kingdom of Heaven would have a small beginning Old Testament prophecy foretold this Messiah: Isaiah 11:1; 53:2-3 Kingdom: Daniel 2:35, 44 “The Son of Man grew up in a despised province; He did not appear in public until His thirtieth year; then taught for two or three years in neighboring villages, and occasionally at Jerusalem; made a few converts, chiefly among the poor and unlearned; and then falling into the hands of His enemies, died the shameful death of the cross; such, and so slight, was the commencement of the universal kingdom of God.” -- C. Trench, Notes on the Parables of our Lord

The Meaning of the Parable Its growth would belie its humble beginnings Growth of the church in the first century confirmed the truth of Jesus’ parable 120 to 3,000 in one day: Acts 2:41-42 Soon 5,000: Acts 4:4 Continued to multiply: Acts 6:7 Throughout cities: Acts 9:31 Many believers in Jerusalem: Acts 21:20

The Meaning of the Parable Its growth would benefit the world In regard to the kingdom, Paul wrote: Those seeking rest for their souls, Jesus offers His invitation: Matthew 11:28-30 “for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Romans 14:17 Today, the kingdom of Heaven continues to grow and spread out its branches to those who will accept it.

The Growth of the Kingdom There is the “mathematical possibility” 20 disciples converting one person a year, then their converts doing the same: Year 1 – 40 Year 5 – 640 Year 10 – 20,480 Year 15 – 655,360

The Growth of the Kingdom There is the “spiritual possibility” “Seed” of the kingdom – the Word of God “Seed” which is incorruptible 1 Peter 1:23-25 “Seed” capable of producing Isaiah 55:10-11 This parable declares that the kingdom will grow!

The Growth of the Kingdom What is needed is people People with vision People willing to put the kingdom of God first in their lives! Matthew 6:33 People willing to abide in Christ John 15:4-8

“The Parable of the Mustard Seed” Conclusion “The Parable of the Mustard Seed” The potential for the kingdom’s growth rests in the person who reigns as its king! Philippians 4:13 An encouragement – kingdom of heaven is destined for great things, though its beginning was small A reminder – that if we are going to be useful to the Master, we must “abide in Him” so we can “bear much fruit”