The Parable of the Mustard Seed

Parable of the Mustard Seed (Mt 13:31-32)

Intro
They had great expectations of the Kingdom of God, as should we (Is 9:5-7; 11:9-10; etc.). But understanding how it comes is important to their work & ours.

Exposition

1. The least seed becomes the greatest herb of all.

2. What about the birds?
   (a) They could simply emphasize the size of the tree (no parallel in v.33)
   Not every detail should be interpreted, esp. since kingdom parables 3&4 and 5&6 are parallel to each other.
   (b) It could imply the activity of the evil one in the kingdom (v.19, forced)
   But each parable must be taken on its own (cf. 'seed' in first 3 parables).
   (c) It could imply the nations taking shelter in the kingdom (Ez 31:6, forced)

All three interpretations are true. But I'm persuaded that looking for meaning in the birds is over-interpreting the parable.

Application

1. Don't despise the small beginnings of the kingdom.
2. Work patiently for the slow (but steady!) growth of the kingdom (see 1Cor 15:58; Mt 11:5).

Conclusion
There is an 'until' in the kingdom of God. But the day is coming when it will all climax, when the great voice in heaven says, 'The kingdom of this world is become the kingdom of our Lord, and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.' (Rev 11:15).