1.Recently, we have been studying passages that relate to God's kingdom. 2.We have examined verses from the Bible: a.that show how God's kingdom was established in Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost that followed the Lord's resurrection b.that reveal the nature of God's kingdom. 3.The subject we are concentrating on this evening is "the growth of the kingdom." 4.As we study this subject we first need to point out that . . .
Discussion:
I.JESUSTAUGHTINHISPARABLESTHATTHEKINGDOMWOULDGROW
A.(Luke 13:18-19) Jesus compared the kingdom to "a grain of mustard seed." 1.A mustard seed is very small - Jesus said it "is the least of all seeds" (Matthew 13:32). 2.However, when the mustard seed is planted, it will grow into a large plant. 3.Note that "a small beginning" and "great growth" are emphasized. B.(Luke 13:20-21) Jesus also compared the kingdom to "leaven." 1.When bread is prepared, leaven must be added to the dough. 2.Given time, a small amount of leaven will cause a large amount of dough to be leavened. 3.Note that "the spreading throughout the whole" is emphasized. C.As Jesus went about teaching, He indicated that the kingdom would grow.
II.JESUSGAVEAPLANWHEREBYTHEKINGDOMWOULDGROW
A.Jesus gave His Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16). B.Jesus gave a more specific plan for reaching the whole world in Acts 1:8.
A.This growth began in Jerusalem. 1.Notice the small beginning in Jerusalem (Acts 1:15). 2.Notice the growth that occurred (Acts 2:41; 4:4; 5:14; 6:7). B.This growth spread throughout Judea and Samaria (Acts 9:31). C.Eventually, the kingdom spread throughout the whole world -- the Gospel was preached to every creature under heaven in about 30 years (Colossians 1:23). D.When the Lord's plan was implemented, the kingdom grew as Jesus said that it would.
IV.THELORDSTILLWANTSHISKINGDOMTOGROW
A.The kingdom experienced tremendous growth in the first century, but the Lord did not limit the growth of the kingdom to that period. B.His Great Commission will be in effect until "the end of the world" (Matthew 28:19-20). C.Certain things are still essential for the growth of the kingdom. 1.God has given us the "seed" that results in growth. a.The seed of the kingdom is identified in Luke 8:11. b.God's Word is still alive and powerful (Hebrews 4:12). 2.The seed must be sown. a.There must be teachers of the Word (Mark 4:14). b.(1 Corinthians 3:6a) We are responsible for planting and watering the seed. 3.The increase must be given by God (1 Corinthians 3:6b; Acts 2:47b).
Conclusion:
1.God wants His kingdom to grow. 2.However, His kingdom will not grow by accident. 3.If we follow the Lord's plan and do His work, He will bless our efforts.
