Matthew 13:31-35

Advancement of God’s Kingdom


Introduction:

When we think of advancement in the world of business, sports or academics, we think of persistent hard work. We see tangible results to prove real success. The disciples did not see much in terms of tangible results under the ministry of the Lord Jesus. Sure, they heard His preaching and saw miraculous healing, but still there were relatively few that believed in Christ and followed His ministry. Where are all the believers and disciples? Jesus anticipates such questions in the minds of His disciples. The parables of the mustard seed and yeast should be studied and understood as a pair.


  1. KINGDOM GROWTH

    1. Mustard Seed

      1. Represents the Word of God

      2. From the incarnation of Christ to the Second Advent

    2. The Yeast

      1. Represents progress from a spiritual and invisible perspective.

      2. Some interpreters see “yeast” as representing “evil’ Matt. 16:12; 8:15; Gal.5:9; I Cor.5:6 ( Morgan, Boice)

      3. “Yeast” does not always mean “evil” (Hendriksen) (Lev.7:13; 23:17-18

      4. Permeates the whole Kingdom – Psa. 72:8


  1. KINGDOM PATTERNS

    1. Small beginnings –v.31

      1. Faith of a mustard seed – Matt.17:20; I Peter 1:23-25

      2. Jerusalem believers – 120, Acts 1:15


    1. Substantial Growth – v.32

      1. Mustard seed plant – rapid growth

      2. The world not impressed

    2. Church History

      1. Revival and Reformation – 16th century

      2. The First Great Awakening – 18th century

    3. The Maturation Process – v.33


  1. KINGDOM PATIENCE

    1. Three practical implications within this Parable:

1. Kingdom Realism – Matt. 24:6-8; Turn To: Hebrews 11:10, 14-16

2. Kingdom Patience –

3. Kingdom Certainty – I Cor.3:5-9; I Cor. 15:24-25







Pastor Nick Iamaio

Reformed Presbyterian Church

207 South First Street, Fulton, NY 13069

Web Site fultonrpc.org

8/10/2008