June 4, 2002, Noel Hawkins, Prestatyn, UK

May 2001

Then Jesus asked, “ What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to? It is like a mustard seed , which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air perched in it’s branches.” Again he asked, “ What shall I compare the kingdom of God to? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount of flour until it worked through the dough.” Luke chapter 13 verses 18-21. New International Version The Lord places two fairly well known parables together in the bible passage we have quoted. He makes no comment and there does not appear to be any outstanding circumstance to indicate why they are placed at this point in the narrative. But their being placed together must not be overlooked. The lessons of the two parables are fairly generally accepted; the first refers to what we call exterior growth i.e. that which is visible; surely the Lord was anticipating the incredible growth of the kingdom. From twelve disciples during His earthly ministry to five thousand in the early history of the church (Acts Chapter 4 verse 4) and continued growth as recorded in the book of the Acts and maintained to the present day. But the second parable is of vital importance too; this refers to what we may call internal growth and change; it occurs almost indiscernibly but is real enough. The kingdom must also develop in godliness, morality, social responsibility and good order. The Lord viewed these two together and what He has joined together “Let no man put asunder” As we enter the New Year let us review our lives, responsibilities and aims for the future in the light of both aspects of truth emphasised here.