Matthew 13:24-46 (Weeds, Mustard Seed & Yeast, Hidden Treasure & Pearls)
We’ll jump back to the Parable of the Sower tomorrow. Keep in mind, these parables were told “later that same day.” So, His disciples had overheard the conversation with the Pharisees, and they went out by the lake and Jesus began telling them stories.
The Parable of the Weeds comes right after the Parable of the Sower. If the Sower planted good seeds in good soil, then where did the weeds come from? The enemy. We shouldn’t assume that everything that is growing in the good soil is from God. We don’t need to go around pulling all the weeds, but it’s important to be aware that they are there.
Then, we have four metaphors for the Kingdom of Heaven: a mustard seed, yeast, a hidden treasure, and pearls.
The Kingdom of Heaven is powerful! It will grow, and it will spread. Once you’ve experienced it, you will do anything, give up everything to live in it all the time. “Mountain-top experiences” are sometimes the moments when people encounter God’s Kingdom, unfortunately, I think there are people who try manufacture those experiences.
Have you ever had a Kingdom of God moment – when you were so immersed in God’s presence you would have done anything to stay in that moment forever? Perhaps you’ve even tried to recreate that experience like you were chasing after that pearl.
What about a manufactured experience, when it seemed like someone was trying to illicit the emotions of the mountain-top high, but it just felt empty?
How do you continue to pursue God’s presence, to seek the Kingdom of God?
Journey Through Scripture 