Mission in Jesus’ Parables of the Kingdomಮಾದರಿ

In Matthew 13:31–33, we have two parallel parables. Something so small it is barely noticeable becomes a vast tree where birds (that is, the nations) can take shelter (Matthew 13:31–32). In Matthew 13:33, a woman hid leaven in three measures of flour, representing 50 or 60 pounds, providing bread for between 100–150 people! Mustard trees do not usually grow large enough to entice many birds to nest in them. Women do not usually make a little bread at home for their family and generate enough food for a small village. Like the other parables we have read, the beginnings do not seem promising, yet the kingdom of God triumphs.

In Matthew 13:44–46, we have two more parallel parables. In both cases, someone stumbles across a great treasure and sells all they have to acquire an object of such great value. Their apparent sacrifice is done out of “delight,” not duty. These two parables emphasize the present nature of the kingdom. The man in the field and the merchant searching for pearls discovered that the treasure was waiting to be discovered right now! The kingdom, we might say, is waiting to be found.

Finally, Jesus concludes these parables with a short saying in Matthew 13:52. Jesus’ teaching, ministry, and kingdom bring something new that many prophets and righteous people longed to see but did not see and to hear but did not hear (Matthew 13:17). At the same time, it is something old. Matthew 13:35 says it is something hidden “since the foundation of the world.” The task of the disciple is to proclaim and interpret this message for others.

What can we learn from these parables about mission? Firstly, the work of the kingdom may seem small and insignificant now, but God is bringing about his kingdom in a mighty way, and one day it will rule over all. Secondly, the kingdom is worth sacrificing everything for since it is more valuable than anything this world has to offer. Thirdly, the kingdom is a treasure whose joy is waiting to be found and available right now for all who seek it. Finally, the kingdom is something wonderfully new, enabling us to see and appreciate what went before it with fresh eyes and understanding. Let us proclaim this kingdom today!

Matthew 13:31–33, 44–46, 51–52

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