“He also asked, “To what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable can we use to present it? It is like a mustard seed that when sown in the ground, even though it is the smallest of all the seeds in the ground – when it is sown, it grows up, becomes the greatest of all garden plants, and grows large branches so that the wild birds can nest in its shade.”
So with many parables like these, he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear. He did not speak to them without a parable. But privately he explained everything to his own disciples.” —Mark 4:30-34
In our verses for today Jesus is teaching us that the work of grace is very small and mysterious in its beginnings, yet it flourishes greatly and considerably.Here Jesus likens the kingdom of God to a common mustard seed–the smallest of all seeds planted in the Palestinian ground. This was an annual plant that could reach a height of twelve to fifteen feet in but a few weeks. Similarly, the work of grace in a man’s life is at first a very small thing, but it grows and grows and grows! The kingdom of God on earth also had humble beginnings which will end greatly. Consider for a moment the original disciples: Never was there such a great undertaking by such a few. These men were responsible for fulfilling Jesus’ great commission and spread the kingdom of God to the ends of the earth through the power of the Holy Spirit:
“Then Jesus came up and said to them, “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
Think for a moment of the differences between Jesus first and second earthly comings. When he was born in the manger, it seemed insignificant, perhaps even enigmatic. The beginning of God’s earthly kingdom–embodied in the presence of our Lord and Savior was no bigger than a mustard seed. And yet the gospel has continued to spread throughout the world, stretching to the furthermost corners of the earth. And as a result, His second coming will most assuredly surpass all kingdoms in glory, greatness, and power. At that time God’s kingdom will be very great indeed.
The Holy Spirit is given to every believer to empower and teach and He is training and equipping us to pass the baton to every subsequent generation until Christ’s second coming.
“This is what the Sovereign LORD says: “I will take a sprig from the lofty top of the cedar and plant it. I will pluck from the top one of its tender twigs; I myself will plant it on a high and lofty mountain. I will plant it on a high mountain of Israel, and it will raise branches and produce fruit and become a beautiful cedar. Every bird will live under it. Every winged creature will live in the shade of its branches. All the trees of the field will know that I am the LORD. I make the high tree low; I raise up the low tree. I make the green tree wither, and I make the dry tree sprout. I, the LORD, have spoken, and I will do it!’” —Ezekiel 17:22-24
“The one who has ears had better listen!” —Matthew 11:15
Take It to Heart
“God is the God of promise. He keeps His word, even when that seems impossible.” —Colin Urquhart
Further Reflections
“But He is the Living Word and His Word is a flashing, double-edged sword and He doesn’t write Himself into neat five-point outlines but He is like the wind–and He speaks in parables that subvert and poetry that ignites and metaphors that jolt and there is nothing safe or small or stiff about Him.” —Ann Voskamp
“Whenever God rules over the human heart as King, there is the kingdom of God established.” —Paul W. Harrison