Passage
Mark 4:21-34 (ESV)
Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
Acts 8:26-40
Key Verse: 8:35
What is the Kingdom of God Like?
Date: Jan. 28, 2016
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 4:30
First, a lamp (21-25). The purpose of a lamp is to shed light on things- to disclose what is hidden. Jesus is the true lamp that sheds light on the coming kingdom of God. Therefore, we should listen to Jesus, repent, and our faith will grow.
Second, the growing seed (26-29). Jesus compared the kingdom of God to a growing seed. We plant seeds in the ground and water them, and they mysteriously grow. In the same way, the kingdom of God grows in our hearts. It seems small and insignificant at first, but one day it will be fully exposed in us. And we will bear much fruit when the harvest time comes.
Third, the mustard seed (30-34). Jesus also compared the kingdom of God to a mustard seed. The mustard seed is a very small seed. But the plant grows very large. In the same way, the kingdom of God starts out small in us. But as we study the Bible, pray and listen to Jesus, the kingdom of God begins to grow in us. It grows until we are mature Christians and we can be used to bring others to perch in our shade.
Prayer: Father, help us to listen to Jesus, so the kingdom of God will be revealed in and through us.
One Word: Listen to Jesus!
