THE MUSTARD SEED

God's kingdom began as something small and humble, yet the potential for growth was present in the twelve apostles, the gospel message, and the future working of the Holy Spirit.

... The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof. Matthew 13:31-32

The life and death of Christ did not catch the world’s attention any more than a single mustard seed would as it lay on the ground by the road. However, this was a divine work of God. What seemed inconsequential at first grew into a worldwide crusade of hope for mankind. 

All the forces of evil could not stop it. 

Spurgeon - Some may think that the mustard seed parable has been fulfilled, and to these, we grant that. Compared with its beginning, the gospel is a great tree; but I cannot feel that we have reached at all the satisfactory fulfillment of the prophetic parable as yet. There are birds of the air yet to come and build their nests in the branches of it. Though little at the beginning, the gospel kingdom is to be far greater than any of us have dreamed.

God's kingdom will continue to grow until its final consummation ... our Lord's soon return.

In another passage, we read about 'mustard seed faith' ... If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove, and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Matthew 17:20

This statement was not to imply that one's faith will move a physical mountain. The point Jesus was making is that even faith the size of a tiny mustard seed can overcome the 'mountainous' obstacles in our lives. The term is a metaphor that signifies a seemingly impossible situation.

In today's sin-laden world, understanding this type of faith is important. Through it, we find rest for our souls in every battle we face ... whether physical or spiritual. As Jesus proves Himself faithful, our trust in Him increases, our Spirit-led prayers grow powerful, and our surrender to His Lordship becomes more complete. 

When you were new to Christianity your faith had not matured to the pulling down of strongholds. But spiritual growth took place and sanctification made you a living example of that mustard 'tree' ... fit for God's use. 

Walk therein.