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Becoming a Mustard Seed

Here is another illustration Jesus used: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches.” MATTHEW 13:31-32 NLT

LITTLENESS IS POWERFUL

Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you. Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. 1 CORINTHIANS 1:26-27 NLT

The seventh angel sounded his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, which said: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah, and he will reign forever and ever.” REVELATION 11:15 NIV

BECAUSE LITTLENESS IS POWERFUL THEN…

I MUST PRIORITIZE SMALL ACTS OF OBEDIENCE

And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” MATTHEW 10:42 NIV

I MUST CHOOSE WEAKNESS SO THAT GOD’S POWER MIGHT COME THROUGH ME

For to be sure, he was crucified in weakness, yet he lives by God’s power. Likewise, we are weak in him, yet by God’s power we will live with him in our dealing with you. 2 CORINTHIANS 13:4 NIV

My Notes

Discussion Questions

Use the following questions to reflect on the sermon and choose a couple from each section to discuss as a group:

  1. START HERE: Where have you recently seen God at work in your life?
  2. START HERE: What little habit or decision has shaped your life more than you initially thought it would?
  3. KEEP GOING: Read Matthew 13:31-32 NLT twice. Chew on each word and the meaning of the parable. Why would Jesus compare the Kingdom of God to a mustard seed?
  4. KEEP GOING: Why do you think God often works slowly or through people who seem “insignificant”?
  5. KEEP GOING: What are the mustard seeds in your life that God could use for something bigger?
  6. KEEP GOING: How does the image of the mustard seed, growing into a tree where birds find rest, connect with the way God wants to use your life?
  7. KEEP GOING: Read 2 Corinthians 13:4 NIV. Where do you feel weak right now? How might that be the very place God wants to show His strength?
  8. LIVE IT OUT: Read Matthew 10:42 NIV. What small act of obedience can you prioritize in your life right now?
  9. LIVE IT OUT: What would you say to encourage someone who feels small or unqualified to have a mustard seed mentality?