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
