The Mustard Seed: Small Start, Big Impact

*Text**: Matthew 13:31-32

Matthew 13:31–32 KJV 1900

Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, 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.

- **Main Idea**: The Kingdom of Heaven starts small but grows into something unstoppable. Don’t despise small beginnings.

- **Hook**: *“What if I told you that the smallest decisions in your life could lead to the biggest outcomes? Think about it. A little yes today can lead to an unbelievable impact tomorrow. Like the first step in a fitness journey, a simple ‘I’m sorry,’ or even...a tiny mustard seed. Jesus said the Kingdom of Heaven is like that. A small start that grows bigger than you could ever imagine.”*

- **Key Points**:

Small Seed

Faith may begin as a tiny seed, but in the hands of God, it develops into a mighty tree, reaching heights beyond our imagination.

A seed contains all the information and power needed to grow into its designed form.

Matthew 17:20 KJV 1900

And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, 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.

In today’s world, think of it like starting a small business, a new relationship, or a personal project. It feels like a drop in the ocean, but with persistence and faith, it grows into something far greater than we could have imagined. The mustard seed reminds us that God’s kingdom works the same way—starting small but growing beyond expectations, impacting lives in powerful ways.

Never underestimate what God can do with something that seems small in your hands.

When the Kingdom of God is sown in a heart of good soil it will grow.

Unexpected Growth

God’s Kingdom grows in ways we can’t predict or control.

When it comes to productivity and usefulness the Kingdom of God starts off in a way that confuses us. The productivity of a fortune 500 company seems to have more visibility, a budding politician that says and does all the right things seems to have more impact on more people, the educational system seems to have more influence, but when the seed of the Kingdom of God is planted in good soil, God grows it to unexpected heights.

The kingdom of God landed on the good soil of the disciples hearts and it grew in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and now it has reached to Elk Grove Ca.

When someone chooses where they place their faith the results will soon become evident.

When someone chooses Jesus, there will be a supernatural longing for growth. This is inward growth that will soon become evident by outward appearances.

Ephesians 2:10 KJV 1900

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

“Commit to God by taking the step of baptism. Commit to His work here on earth by joining and actively engaging in a community group. And commit to being a witness for Jesus by using the relationships you already have to share His message of grace and hope with others.”

Global Impact

God uses small acts of faith for massive Kingdom influence.

The mustard seed grows into a tree and provides rest for those who seek refuge in it.

When you look at the whole scope of the New Testament especially Acts and the Pauline epistles, we see that the seed of the kingdom is not just the individuals faith in Christ, but the local churches.

- **Application**: Inside of each local church are individuals that have been redeemed by receiving the seed of Abraham (Jesus Christ) by faith. These individuals have God working in them through small, faithful steps of faith. Baptism, becoming a member of the local church, consistent bible study and prayer, trusting God in their personal trials while openly sharing with the community groups they are intentionally involved in. Sharing their faith with family and friends in real sincere ways. Sacrificing finances for Gospel action.

- **Illustration**: The Kern family stepped out by faith in the late 90’s knowing God wanted to plant a seed somewhere in California. By faith in Late 2002 God used that seed to see Faithway Baptist Church started and now 22 years latter God has used the seed to bud into a plant that is starting to make a global impact. And you are a part of it. You have found rest here. You can become a branch of that mustard plant.

- **Big Question**: What small step can you take to expand God’s Kingdom?

Matthew 13:31–32 KJV 1900

Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, 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.

Benediction:

“May the God of small beginnings, who plants seeds of faith in our hearts, cause them to grow beyond what we can imagine. As you go out this week, trust that even the smallest step taken in faith can lead to something far greater in the Kingdom of Heaven. May you find rest in God’s presence, strength in His promises, and courage to take the next small step that will impact the world around you. Go in peace, knowing that God’s unstoppable Kingdom is growing within you and through you. Amen.”