Big Things In Small Packages

Big Things In Small Packages

Matthew 13:31-33

February 13, 2005

Matthew 13:31-32 (NLT)

Here is another illustration Jesus used: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. [32] It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants and grows into a tree where birds can come and find shelter in its branches."

Starting Small

- God takes us where we are at

– It is seed that is planted...not fully matured trees

- Growth is a process

– Depth

– Death to self

– Nurture

Big Results

- The seed is planted in expectation of full maturity

– When fully mature the tree begins to give life to the world around it

– The tree stands tall in comparison to its surroundings

Matthew 13:33 (NLT)

Jesus also used this illustration: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like yeast used by a woman making bread. Even though she used a large amount of flour, the yeast permeated every part of the dough."

It Only Takes A Little

- Even the smallest efforts for the Kingdom of God pay big dividends

– Prayer

– Time in the word

– Sharing your faith

– Acts of service

– Time with others

Making A Big Difference

- The life of influence

– Restoration of hope

– Encouragement to press on

– Shaping future leaders

– Allowing others to see Jesus in you

– Bringing a brighter day

Big Tasks...Small Tools

- God has always used the small and unlikely to accomplish the amazing

– Gideon and his “army” of 300

– Moses the stuttering spokesman

– David the shepherd boy warrior

– Peter the fishing preacher

– Feeding 5,000+ with a sack lunch

- God has planted you with a purpose

- God can and will use you to do things above and beyond anything you could ever imagine

**Powerpoint available on request