Parable of the Growing Seed

26 Jesus also said, “The Kingdom of God is like a farmer who scatters seed on the ground. 27 Night and day, while he’s asleep or awake, the seed sprouts and grows, but he does not understand how it happens. 28 The earth produces the crops on its own. First a leaf blade pushes through, then the heads of wheat are formed, and finally the grain ripens. 29 And as soon as the grain is ready, the farmer comes and harvests it with a sickle, for the harvest time has come.”

Parable of the Mustard Seed

30 Jesus said, “How can I describe the Kingdom of God? What story should I use to illustrate it? 31 It is like a mustard seed planted in the ground. It is the smallest of all seeds, 32 but it becomes the largest of all garden plants; it grows long branches, and birds can make nests in its shade.”

33 Jesus used many similar stories and illustrations to teach the people as much as they could understand. 34 In fact, in his public ministry he never taught without using parables; but afterward, when he was alone with his disciples, he explained everything to them.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

NLT Daily Reader's Bible, hardcover
NLT Daily Reader's Bible, hardcover
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $7.99
Save: $22.00 (73%)
4.0 of 5.0 stars
NLT Teen Life Application Study Bible, Softcover
NLT Teen Life Application Study Bible, Softcover
Retail: $22.99
Our Price: $18.99
Save: $4.00 (17%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
My First Hands-on Bible--soft leather-look, pretty pink
My First Hands-on Bible--soft leather-look, pretty pink
Retail: $19.99
Our Price: $15.99
Save: $4.00 (20%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
NLT Filament Bible, Blue Clothbound Hardcover
NLT Filament Bible, Blue Clothbound Hardcover
Retail: $59.99
Our Price: $17.99
Save: $42.00 (70%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
NLT Gospel of John, pack of 10
NLT Gospel of John, pack of 10
Retail: $11.99
Our Price: $9.99
Save: $2.00 (17%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars