There are several parables that teach us principles that are very much related to the growth of God’s kingdom. Today we want to take a look at just a few from Matthew 13 and continue to study and learn so that we are in a position to glorify God and be blessed through His providential working.
THE PARABLE OF THE SOWER (Mt. 13)
The parable of the sower pictures a man sowing seed indiscriminately. The seed falls on four differing kinds of soil. We are told in Luke 8:11 that the seed is the Word of God. Without going into detail concerning this familiar parable, note the following points:
1. The agent of converting and saving the soul is the Word of God! (Rom. 1:16).
2. There is a place to scatter the Word of God far and wide (Mt. 28:18-20).
3. We should not expect all seed to come to fruition.
4. But should expect some to bear fruit, finding good hearts! The more seed spread, the more hearts will be found!
5. Remember, we sow the seed, God gives the increase! (1 Cor. 3:6).
THE PARABLE OF THE WHEAT AND WEEDS (Read Mt. 13:24-30; 36-43; see also the Parable of the Net – Mt. 13:47-50)
This generally less familiar parable pictures bad seed secretly being spread amongst the good. When the servants make this discovery, they inquire regarding what they ought to do. The master tells them to let the weeds grow with the wheat and the matter will be settled at the harvest. Here are a few important considerations:
1. Both the Lord and Satan continue to sow seed today. The devil has done so from the beginning (see Gen. 3:1-7). In 1 Timothy 4, Paul refers to doctrine that is not from God as the doctrine of demons. We are defenders of the faith of Jesus Christ (Phil. 1:17; Jude 3). We cast down arguments (2 Cor. 10:5). We speak the truth in love (Eph. 4:15). We join Jesus in sowing the “good seed,” the seed of the kingdom.
2. An amazing motivation we have for sowing good seed and defending the faith is what will take place at the end, on judgment day. That is what we labor for. To make a difference in eternity!
3. From a negative perspective, when sights are turned away from what will take place at the judgment, that’s often when seed becomes tainted! Don’t be short-sighted!
THE PARABLE OF THE HIDDEN TREASURE AND PEARL OF GREAT PRICE (Read Mt. 13:44-45)
Both of these very short parables emphasize the amazing value and joy of the kingdom. We need to be reminded of the great hope we live with each day so that we will be compelled to make that treasure available for others!
These parables from Matthew 13 are just a few of the parables that relate to the growth of the body of Christ and the privilege we have of being involved with the work of our Lord!
Daren Schroeder
