Mustard Seeds and Parables
| Again he said, "What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest seed you plant in the ground. Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds of the air can perch in its shade." With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand. He did not say anything to them without using a parable. But when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything. (Mark4:30-34) |
Mark notes that Jesus used parables for the crowds but explained everything to the disciples. This reveals an important principle: People can only receive what they are ready for. Jesus uses parables, because they are interesting vehicles that can carry unexpectedly large loads... if the listener pauses long enough for the unloading to begin.
The points He makes about seeds (the gospel) are significant.
The seed is powerful. The seed grows all by itself, but it can be hampered by the "soil".
Now, in the final parable, Jesus shows us that the seed can be tiny, but yield big results.
This is important because we tend to look down on small beginnings.
The parables are also little seeds, but they can pack a big punch.
As we review this chapter, here are some thoughts.
- We need to trust the seed enough to sow generously.
- We need to be good soil.
- Sometimes we take our role too seriously, we don't convert people, the Spirit is the one who makes the seed grow "all by itself."
- We should never look down on small beginnings.
