All of Me!
(Back
to Study Home Page) Sermon
February 29, 2004
(Back
to Sermons Home Page) (Back
to Shultz Home Page)
February 29, 2004 - Matthew 13:31-35
Open It
What small or seemingly insignificant possession is worth a great deal to you? Why?
What are some big or important events that start out very small?
What ingredients make for great storytelling?
What is one fairytale you remember from childhood that you still enjoy today?
Explore It
What did Jesus tell the crowd? (13:31)
In the Parable of the Mustard Seed, what did the man do with the seed? (13:31)
To what kind of seed did Christ compare the kingdom of heaven? Why? (13:31-32)
How does the mustard seed compare to others in size? (13:32)
What is a mustard seed like when it is fully grown? (13:32)
Besides bearing fruit, how is a mustard plant useful? (13:32)
In the Parable of the Yeast, to what did Christ liken the kingdom of heaven? (13:33)
How does yeast work? (13:33)
In addition to parables, how else did Jesus get His point across to the crowd? (13:34)
Why was Jesus' use of parables significant? (13:35)
Get It
In what small or seemingly insignificant ways has God worked in your life?
How can a Christian be a positive presence among his or her non-Christian friends and relatives?
What are some ways a person can spread the gospel in a place where there is little Christian influence?
What are some little things we can do to make a big impact for Christ?
What does this passage say to those who don't feel talented, gifted, or brilliant?
In what ways has your Christian life grown to bless others (like the mustard seed becoming a big tree)?
Apply It
What is one way you could quietly help the gospel permeate your family, workplace, or circle of friends?
What illustrations, examples, or stories can you share with someone today to help him or her understand your faith in Christ?
What prayer can you begin praying this week to help the gospel to spread?
NOTES
Matthew 13:31-32: The mustard seed was the smallest seed a farmer used. Jesus used this parable to show that the kingdom has small beginnings but will grow and produce great results.
Matthew 13:33: In other Bible passages, yeast is used as a symbol of evil or uncleanness. Here it is a positive symbol of growth. Although yeast looks like a minor ingredient, it permeates the whole loaf. Although the kingdom began small and was nearly invisible, it would soon grow and have a great impact on the world.
(Back
to Study Home Page) Sermon
February 29, 2004
(Back
to Sermons Home Page) (Back
to Shultz Home Page)