# 194
I. The parable of the mustard seed. Vs 30-32
Introduction: Where is Jesus when we need Him? Just a prayer, a word away is how close He is to us. They had Him physically, we have Him in the Spirit. Jesus explained about the mustard seed, small in size, but when planted it became a large tree. The test of faith came when they were to go to the other side of the sea. When the storm arose, how much faith did they have?
A. Two important facts about the power of such a small seed.
II. The authority of Jesus over nature Vs 35-41
1. One demonstrates the effect one small seed can have when planted.
B. The Kingdom of Heaven, ever so small, has grown to a great movement.
2. It grows into a large tree.
3. This is referring to the growth of the Church of God when planted in the Word of God.
4. The next is our faith, ever so small.
5. Do we really trust God�s Word?
6. The seed of faith, if nourished, will grow regardless of size.
1. God�s Word sown �in the earth� has produced.
C. The farmer, us, must have a commitment of heart, mind, and body to sow seed.
1. Commitment of heart for motivation.
D. If there is no sowing, there is no growth or harvest.
2. Commitment of mind for planning.
3. Commitment of body planting.
4. John 4:34-35, Romans 13:12.
1. This is the law of reproduction, of fruit bearing.
A. Also the necessity of having time for rest and peace.
II. Rest and Peace are a concern of Jesus.
1. Rest and peace are sought after a tiring day.
B. Jesus proves again that He is Messiah.
2. Rest and peace can be experienced despite a great storm.
1. Calming the storm would do two things.
C. The storm, it makes no difference the magnitude, Jesus is able to deliver us and bring us through.
2. One, it would demonstrate who He is, the Sovereign Lord, who has power to deliver and bring us through.
3. Two, strengthen the belief of His followers, belief in Him as Messiah and His care and love for them.
4. Three, give to all generations a picture of His care and power to deliver us from all trials and storms of life.
1. His wonderful care is demonstrated by His power to deliver.
2. One, rest and peace are sought after a tiring day. Vs 35-39
3. Two, rest and peace can be experienced despite the storm. Vs 37-38
4. Three, rest and peace are a concern of Jesus. Vs 39
5. Four, rest and peace come through two sources, faith and Jesus. Vs 40-41
A. Remember these Disciples were seasoned fishermen.
Conclusion: Restoration. When we plant the seed of faith and allow it to grow, Jesus will see our faith and act on our behalf. Regardless of our storm, He will calm it for us when we trust Him.
1. They had been in storms before.
B. The Disciples had to call the Master. Vs 38
2. This storm was more violent than normal.
3. The situation had gotten out of their hands.
4. They thought Jesus would wake up on His own accord, but because of His fatigue, He did not wake.
1. They confessed they were perishing and needed help.
C. Jesus reacted in their behalf.
2. Each realized their human inability, and need of His help.
1. He arose from sleep.
D. Jesus� power to control the storm, to control nature itself, demonstrates three facts.
2. He rebuked the wind, and the wind ceased.
3. He spoke to the sea, and there was a great calm.
4. The words, �Peace be still� literally means �to be muzzled�.
1. Jesus is the Son of God, The Sovereign Lord over all nature and life.
2. Jesus Christ can calm any storm of life for us. Matthew 28:18, Romans 1:4
3. This is when we get into His presence and believe.
4. Put into action the seed of faith.