Mark 4:31

[It is] like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth:

It is like {G5613} a grain {G2848} of mustard seed {G4615}, which {G3739}, when {G3752} it is sown {G4687} in {G1909} the earth {G1093}, is less {G3398} than all {G3956} the seeds {G4690} that be {G2076} in {G1909} the earth {G1093}:

It is like a mustard seed, which, when planted, is the smallest of all the seeds in the field;

It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest of all seeds sown upon the earth.

It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown upon the earth, though it be less than all the seeds that are upon the earth,

Commentary

Mark 4:31 is a pivotal part of the Parable of the Mustard Seed, one of Jesus' profound illustrations about the nature and growth of the Kingdom of God. This verse specifically highlights the remarkable contrast between the humble beginnings of the Kingdom and its eventual expansive reach.

Context

This verse is found within a series of parables Jesus taught to the crowds and his disciples, often with later private explanations to the latter (as seen in Mark 4:34). Following the Parable of the Sower and the Parable of the Growing Seed, the Parable of the Mustard Seed underscores a key characteristic of God's work: it often starts small and unseen, yet possesses an inherent power for immense growth. The audience, accustomed to grand expectations of a Messiah, would find this humble imagery striking, as it challenged conventional views of power and influence.

Key Themes

  • The Humility of the Kingdom's Origin: The primary message is that the Kingdom of God, though destined for global impact, begins in a seemingly insignificant way. Jesus himself, the King, began his ministry humbly, gathering a small group of disciples. This challenges human notions of grandeur and immediate visible success.
  • Exponential Growth: Despite its tiny start, the mustard seed grows into a large plant, providing shelter. This illustrates the dynamic, unstoppable expansion of the Kingdom, from a small group of believers to a worldwide movement, as further described in Mark 4:32. This growth is organic and divinely assured.
  • Divine Power at Work: The growth is not due to human effort alone, but to the inherent life within the seed, representing the divine power and presence of God that enables the Kingdom to flourish. This echoes the concept of spiritual growth and fruitfulness that comes from God, as seen elsewhere, such as in 1 Corinthians 3:6.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "less than all the seeds that be in the earth" is an example of hyperbole, a common rhetorical device used by Jesus to emphasize a point. While the mustard seed was not literally the absolute smallest seed known in the world (e.g., orchid seeds are smaller), it was proverbially known in ancient Israel as the smallest seed that grew into a relatively large plant. This exaggerated comparison vividly highlights the dramatic contrast between the Kingdom's humble, almost imperceptible beginnings and its impressive potential for widespread influence and growth.

Practical Application

For believers today, this parable offers immense encouragement and vital lessons:

  • Value Small Beginnings: Do not despise small efforts or humble starts in faith, ministry, or personal growth. God often works through what seems insignificant to achieve great things. A single act of kindness, a quiet prayer, or sharing the Gospel with one person can have far-reaching effects.
  • Expect Growth: The Kingdom of God is a living, growing entity. We are called to participate in its expansion, trusting that God will bring the increase. This perspective fosters patience and perseverance in ministry and personal discipleship.
  • Personal Faith: Even a "grain of mustard seed" faith can accomplish great things (Matthew 17:20). This reminds us that the power lies not in the size of our faith, but in the object of our faith – God Himself – and His ability to transform the small into the mighty.

This parable continues to inspire hope and action, demonstrating that God's plan unfolds from the most unexpected and modest origins into a powerful and expansive reality.

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Cross-References

  • Acts 19:20 (4 votes)

    So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.

  • Luke 13:18 (4 votes)

    ¶ Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it?

  • Luke 13:19 (4 votes)

    It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it.

  • Daniel 2:44 (3 votes)

    And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, [but] it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.

  • Daniel 2:45 (3 votes)

    Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream [is] certain, and the interpretation thereof sure.

  • Genesis 22:17 (3 votes)

    That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which [is] upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies;

  • Genesis 22:18 (3 votes)

    And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.