There was an error in recording this sermon, our apologies.  

Duke describes the Kingdom of Heaven as something that starts small and grows by its own power into something impossibly great.  It may seem unimportant and unimpressive, but has great eternal consequence, just like the example of Jesus and his 12 ordinary disciples.  What God is doing in the world (1) usually appears small at first, (2) moves more slowly than we wish it would, (3) doesn't require much human effort (thank God He will do all the important work!), and (4) results in an overwhelming harvest.  

Mark 4:26-34

26 He also said, “This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. 27 Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. 28 All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. 29 As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come.”

30 Again he said, “What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? 31 It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest of all seeds on earth. 32 Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds can perch in its shade.”

33 With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand. 34 He did not say anything to them without using a parable. But when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.

 

1) Is there something or someone that appears “small,” “unimpressive,” or “weak” that God might be using powerfully but you might be overlooking arrogantly? 

2) What’s one way you need to believe that God is on the move, although perhaps more slowly and invisibly than we expect? 

 

We do not always see or understand the ways of Christ; but we can have confidence that he is sowing his powerful seed and that it will bear its own fruit. His word ‘will not return empty’ (Isa. 55:11). There will be a harvest.

Sinclair Ferguson

 

The whole world will eventually be covered with the knowledge of the glory of God, every nook and cranny gleaming with the celestial beauty of our faithful Redeemer.

Jared Wilson 

 

The wise disciple will wait in confidence for God’s work to be accomplished in God’s way. 

Richard France  

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