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The Mustard Seed of Faith

Posted 12/8/2024

And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.  (Matthew 17:20)

 

Reference Scriptures:  Hebrews 11:1 / Luke 18:8 / Romans 12:3 / 1Corinthians 12:9 

Our lesson aim: 

To understand the power of faith and how even a small amount of faith in God can bring about significant changes in our lives.

Lesson Outline

1. Context of Matthew 17:20

  • The Setting: This verse is part of an episode where the disciples were unable to cast out a demon from a boy. Jesus intervened and healed the boy. When the disciples asked why they failed, Jesus pointed to their lack of faith.
  • Key Message: Jesus emphasizes the transformative power of faith, even when it seems small.

2. The Mustard Seed: A Powerful Metaphor

  • Why a Mustard Seed?
    • The mustard seed is one of the smallest seeds, symbolizing that even a tiny amount of genuine faith can be potent.
    • It grows into a large tree-like plant, showing how small beginnings can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
  • Lesson: Faith doesn’t have to be grand; what matters is its authenticity and direction.

3. Faith and Mountains

  • Symbolism of the Mountain:
    • Mountains represent obstacles, challenges, or seemingly immovable situations in life.
  • Faith in Action:
    • Jesus teaches that faith empowers us to overcome what appears impossible.
    • It is not just about literal mountain-moving but trusting God to handle life's biggest challenges.

4. "Nothing Will Be Impossible for You"

  • Qualifying This Promise:
    • This does not mean we get everything we want but things that aligns with God’s will and purposes.
    • Faith gives us access to God’s power, which works in ways that exceed human understanding.

5. How to Cultivate Faith

  • Steps to Grow in Faith:
    1. Study God’s Word: The Bible strengthens our understanding of God’s power and promises.
    2. Prayer: Regular communication with God helps deepen trust.
    3. Action: Step out in faith, even in small ways, to see God at work.
    4. Community: Surround yourself with others who encourage and challenge your faith.

Reflection Questions

  1. What “mountains” in your life feel impossible to move? How can faith help you face them?
  2. Have you ever experienced God working through a small step of faith? What happened?
  3. How can you encourage someone else to trust God in a difficult situation?

Practical Application

  • Daily Prayer Challenge: Start each day asking God to strengthen your faith.
  • Faith in Action: Choose one small "mustard seed" step this week—whether forgiving someone, stepping out of your comfort zone, or trusting God with a decision.

Closing Thought

Faith as small as a mustard seed is not about the size of your belief but the greatness of the God in whom you place your trust. When you act in faith, you invite God’s power to work in and through your life.

Memory Verse:
"If you have faith as small as a mustard seed... nothing will be impossible for you." – Matthew 17:20

Challenge: Reflect on what mountains God is calling you to face with faith this week.