22010.254 God’s Kingdom

“Jesus asked, ‘What is the kingdom of God like? To what should I compare it? It is like a mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the wild birds nested in its branches.’” —Luke 13:18–19

Here Jesus gives us a contrast between the tiny size of the mustard seed and the great plant that grows from it. He compares it to the influence of the kingdom of heaven which appears small and insignificant but becomes a mighty force with far reaching effects. Preceding Mark’s account of this same parable, Jesus gives us another interesting story:

“The kingdom of God is like someone who spreads seed on the ground. He goes to sleep and gets up, night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. By itself the soil produces a crop, first the stalk, then the head, then the full grain in the head. And when the grain is ripe, he sends in the sickle because the harvest has come.” —Mark 4:26–29

Someone spreads the seed (the good news of Jesus through the Word of God) and in the mysterious work of God, the planted seed sprouts and begins to grow! God works in the life-bearing seed which, when planted in good soil, grows from stage to stage producing the grain without human intervention. How important it is that we are faithful in the sowing! Scripture tells us:

“How are they to call on one they have not believed in? And how are they to believe in one they have not heard of? And how are they to hear without someone preaching to them? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How timely is the arrival of those who proclaim the good news.’” —Romans 10:14–15

Are we joyful spreaders of the Good News of Jesus? 

Our Lord’s last command just prior to His ascension challenges us to share the Good News!

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” —Matthew 28:18–20

Become More

Jesus’ commission was for all believers. As Jesus was always about His Father’s business, we should be likewise.

Each one of us has a field within our sphere of influence. Oftentimes we are the only Jesus many will “see.” So how are you doing? This is a high and worthy calling. Many will not hear our words because our lives are too loud. We often blend with the world and not with Christ. This is due to many things, not the least of which is ignorance to God’s will which is revealed through His Word. I will never forget many years ago when someone asked me if I thought it was acceptable for them to take a certain action that, evidently unbeknownst to them, was a blatant “no” in Scripture. This person was someone I thought had at least a basic knowledge of God’s Word. It left quite an impression on me. We must know God’s Word! We are all susceptible to sin—it is called human nature. But God’s Word will guide and guard us.

“The best protection against Satan’s lies is to know God’s truth.” —Anonymous

Further Reflections

“God has an inexhaustible enthusiasm for the fame of His name among the nations.” —John Piper

“Carrying God’s gracious offer involves human beings whom God has brought to Himself and then uses as His heralds. They share God’s message of salvation because He will save everyone who calls on His name. Paul quoted from Isaiah concerning the eagerness of the bearers of good news. Those who bear it have beautiful… feet, that is, their message is welcome.” — Bible Knowledge Commentary

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