The Power of a Seed | Til Kingdom Come | Pastor Steve Andres

How do we understand the kingdom of God? This weekend Pastor Steve Andres began a new series of messages called “Til Kingdom Come." Matthew 13:31-33Jesus told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.” Jesus came announcing that God’s kingdom had arrived. In this passage he tells us its arrival is inconspicuous at first, like a tiny mustard seed.1. The seed has power for life. The kingdom of God is not positive thinking or principles for living. It’s not first a system of beliefs or behaviors. 1 Corinthians 4:20 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.  When God’s rule and authority are in operation, there is power at work to bring life. 2. The seed brings potential for growth.It’s not right for us to think about God’s work in us as something fragile and breakable. The work God is doing in you has potential to transform you and your world.3. The seed creates new purpose and blessing.The work that God is doing in you is not just for you! God’s work is in you SO THAT you can be a blessing to others. Jesus talked about his own life in this way: John 12:24I tell you the truth, unless a grain of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But it dies [SO THAT] it can produce a plentiful harvest of new lives.  Jesus died a death so we could have life. He wasn’t just buried, he was planted, and he was raised again SO THAT we could have life!Everything we need is in the seed!