How Does the Kingdom Grow?
When Jesus taught about the Kingdom, He often used parables. Rather than describing armies, governments, or political power, He described seeds, fields, treasure, yeast, and fishing nets.
Why?
Because God's Kingdom grows differently from the kingdoms of this world.
Jesus compared the Kingdom to a mustard seed.
"Indeed it is the least of all the seeds; but when it is grown it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree." (Matthew 13:31-32)
The Kingdom began in a way that seemed small and insignificant. A handful of disciples gathered around Jesus. Yet from that small beginning, the gospel spread throughout the world.
He also compared the Kingdom to leaven hidden in dough.
"The kingdom of heaven is like leaven...till it was all leavened." (Matthew 13:33)
Leaven works quietly but powerfully. It changes the dough from the inside out. In the same way, God's Kingdom changes lives one heart at a time.
Jesus compared the Kingdom to a treasure hidden in a field and to a pearl of great price (Matthew 13:44-46).
Both pictures teach the same lesson.
The Kingdom is worth more than anything else we possess. Those who truly understand its value gladly give up everything to belong to Christ.
Finally, Jesus compared the Kingdom to a dragnet cast into the sea (Matthew 13:47-50).
The gospel is preached to all kinds of people. Not everyone responds in faith, and not everyone who claims to belong to Christ truly belongs to Him. The final separation will come at the judgment, not before.
These parables remind us that God's Kingdom does not spread by force.
It grows as the gospel is preached, believed, and obeyed.
Every time someone submits to Christ, another citizen is added to His Kingdom.
That growth continues today.
Christ is still reigning.
The gospel is still being preached.
Men and women are still being called into His Kingdom.
One day that work will be complete.
Until then, the Kingdom continues to grow exactly as Jesus said it would.
Continue Your Study
What Will Happen When Christ Returns?
If Christ is reigning now, what remains to be accomplished?
What does the New Testament say about His return, the resurrection, the judgment, and the eternal Kingdom?
Related Bible Studies
Why Is the Church Called the Kingdom?
What Is the Mission of the Church?
The Story of Redemption
Understanding the Parables of Jesus
Companion Video
How Does the Kingdom Grow?
Read First. Conclude Later.