In the Gospel of Matthew, we find a series of parables spoken by Jesus , which are valuable lessons about the Kingdom of God. One of these parables is found in (Matthew 13:31-32) – “ Another parable he proposed to them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field; Which is indeed the smallest of all seeds; but when it grows, it is the largest of plants, and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches.” In this verse Jesus talks about the growth of the Kingdom, using the illustration of a mustard seed. In this Bible study, we will explore this parable in detail, examining its spiritual meaning and its implications for our lives as followers of Christ.
The Kingdom of God and Its Growth
In verse 31, Jesus begins by saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a man sowed in his field.” This parable reveals an important truth about the Kingdom of God: it starts small, but grows remarkably. The mustard seed was one of the smallest seeds that could be planted in that region, but when it grew, it became a sturdy tree.
This illustration teaches us that the Kingdom of God has humble beginnings, but its potential for growth is immense. When Jesus began his earthly ministry, he had only twelve disciples, but his teaching and work spread quickly, reaching multitudes and changing lives. Today, the Kingdom of God continues to grow as more people are reached by the gospel and become disciples of Christ.
This parable also challenges us to examine our own spiritual lives. Like a mustard seed, our relationship with God may start out humble, but as we nurture our faith, it grows stronger and grows. We need to be willing to allow the Kingdom of God to grow in us, allowing it to have a significant impact on our lives and influence.
Impact of the Kingdom of God on Society
In verse 32, Jesus continues the parable, saying, “Although it is the smallest of all seeds, when it grows up it is the greatest of herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” This description shows us that, despite its humble beginnings, the mustard tree becomes a source of shelter and provision for the birds of the air.
This reveals to us that the Kingdom of God is not just something that happens on an individual level, but also has a transforming impact on society. Matthew 5:14-16: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor do they light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” This verse emphasizes the importance of being a light in the world, sharing God’s good works and love for others to see and be drawn to your light. He highlights the need to be a transforming example in society, as mentioned in the excerpt.
As the Kingdom of God grows in us and in our community of faith, it becomes a source of hope, comfort, and provision for those around us. People should be attracted by the love, peace and justice that emanate from the Kingdom of God in our lives.
Furthermore, just as birds find shelter in the branches of the mustard tree, people must find refuge and protection in our community of faith. We, as disciples of Christ, are called to welcome, care for and love others, demonstrating God’s love in practical and tangible ways.
This parable also challenges us to appreciate the influence we exert on the world around us. Are we growing like mustard trees, offering shelter and spiritual provision to those who are searching for God? Or are we isolating ourselves and closing ourselves off from the transforming impact of the Kingdom of God? We need to allow the Kingdom to grow in us and through us so that we can make a difference in our society.
The Nature of the Kingdom of God
As we look at the parable of the mustard, it is also important to consider the nature of the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom is not an earthly or political dominion, but rather the reign of God in our hearts and in all spheres of life. It is a spiritual kingdom, where God rules with love, justice and power.
Luke 17:21 , Jesus is talking about the Kingdom of God and says: “They will not even say: Lo here! or: Hey there! For behold, the Kingdom of God is within you.”
This verse emphasizes that the Kingdom of God is not a physical or visible realm, but rather a spiritual reality that is present within people’s hearts. He highlights that the Kingdom of God cannot be limited to a specific place, nor is it restricted to an earthly institution. God’s reign is manifested through His loving, just and powerful government in people’s lives and in all spheres of existence.
When considering the parable of the mustard, where the tiny seed grows into a large tree, this verse helps us understand that the growth of the Kingdom of God is not about conquering physical territories, but rather about the transforming power of the message and government of God in our hearts and in the lives of those around us. The verse emphasizes that the presence of the Kingdom of God is an interior and personal experience, which influences and impacts everything around us.
When Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a mustard seed, he is emphasizing that the Kingdom begins imperceptibly, but its growth is remarkable. Just as the mustard seed develops into a large tree, the Kingdom of God expands and manifests itself in a visible and impactful way. As we surrender to God’s rule in our lives, we experience inner transformation and become living witnesses of Kingdom power and reality.
This parable invites us to consider the importance of cultivating an intimate relationship with God, allowing his Kingdom to grow in us. When we seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, we find purpose, direction and fullness of life (Matthew 6:33) – “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you ”.
We need to nurture our faith through prayer, reading the Word, and cultivating constant communion with the Holy Spirit. As we submit to God’s rule, we are transformed and empowered to live according to Kingdom values and principles.
The Call to Multiply
The parable of the mustard also calls for multiplication and reproduction. The mustard seed, when it grows, produces more mustard seeds, which in turn can be planted and grow into other mustard trees. This cycle of growth and multiplication is a fundamental aspect of the Kingdom of God.
As disciples of Christ, we are called to make disciples and share the gospel with others “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; Teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.” (Matthew 28:19-20). Just as the mustard tree provides shelter and provision for the birds of the air, we must share God’s love and the gospel with those who are looking for hope and salvation.
The parable of the mustard challenges us to assess our willingness and readiness to multiply the Kingdom of God within our sphere of influence. We are called to plant gospel seeds, invest in the lives of others, and help them grow and mature in their faith. This requires commitment, dedication and sacrificial love for others.
The Kingdom of God and the Individual Purpose
In addition to talking about the growth and influence of God’s Kingdom, the parable of the mustard also reminds us of the individual purpose each of us has in God. Just as a mustard seed has the potential to become a bountiful tree, each of us has a specific calling and purpose in the Kingdom of God.
God created us with unique abilities, gifts, and talents, and he wants us to use those abilities for his glory and for the good of others . (1 Peter 4:10). Each of us can make a significant difference in the Kingdom of God, no matter how small we may appear in the eyes of the world.
Therefore, it is essential that we cultivate a life of intimacy with God, seeking to discern the purpose and direction he has for us. As we submit to his will and surrender to his plan, he will empower and guide us to fulfill the purpose he has for us.
Faith as the Seed of the Kingdom of God
An interesting perspective that we can extract from the parable of the mustard is the role of faith as the seed of the Kingdom of God. Just as a mustard seed is sown in the field, faith is sown in our hearts through the work of the Holy Spirit.
Faith is the key to entering the Kingdom of God and experiencing the transforming life it offers “For by grace you have been saved, through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast;” (Ephesians 2:8-9). When we receive Jesus as our Savior and Lord, the seed of faith is planted in our hearts, and as we nurture that faith through our relationship with God and the study of the Word, it grows and develops, bearing fruit in our lives.
We must understand that faith is not just an intellectual belief, but a living and active trust in God. We need to trust his promises, depend on his grace, and seek his will in every area of our lives. As faith grows in us, it becomes the driving force that drives the growth and impact of God’s Kingdom.
Conclusion:
The parable of the mustard reminds us that the Kingdom of God is constantly growing and expanding. Starting humble and small, the Kingdom of God becomes a transforming influence in the lives of those who receive it and allow it to rule their lives.
May we be like the mustard seed, allowing the Kingdom of God to grow in us and through us. May we be fruit trees, offering shelter, provision and hope to those around us. And may we cultivate a living and active faith, trusting God and seeking to fulfill the purpose he has for each of us.
The Kingdom of God is something powerful and transformative. May we seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, knowing that all other things will be added to us (Matthew 6:33). May we live in full surrender to God, allowing his Kingdom to grow in us and be manifested through us, for the glory of his name.
