2025.02.02 | Growing in God’s Kingdom

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeff Potts continued our Parables of Jesus series with a powerful message on the Parable of the Wheat and Weeds (Matthew 13:24-30). If you missed it, here are some key takeaways and reflections from the sermon.

Planting Good Seed in God’s Field  

Jesus used parables to teach profound truths about the kingdom of God, and this one is no exception. A farmer sows good seed in his field, but an enemy sows weeds among the wheat. When the plants grow, the workers are confused: “Where did these weeds come from?”

The farmer’s response is striking: “An enemy has done this.” But instead of pulling up the weeds immediately, he tells his workers to wait until harvest. Why? Because pulling the weeds too soon might damage the wheat.

This story isn’t just about farming. It’s about faithfulness, growth, and God’s perfect timing.
Here are four lessons that stood out:


Lessons from the Harvest 

1. From Green to Gold: The Transformation of Wheat  

  Just as wheat undergoes a transformation from green to gold as it matures, God calls us to grow and change in our faith. Pastor Jeff posed a poignant question: “Are we becoming more like Jesus, or are we staying the same?” Growth isn’t always comfortable, but it’s a necessary part of our spiritual journey.

This lesson left me reflecting on where God might be calling me to grow in this season. Are there areas in my life where I’ve resisted change, or am I embracing the transformation He desires for me?

2. A Harvest That Multiplies: Wheat Produces More Wheat  

  Wheat doesn’t just grow. It multiplies, producing seeds that lead to future harvests. Similarly, our faith should not remain stagnant; it should bear fruit that multiplies. Are we sharing the hope of Jesus with others? Are we investing in relationships that point people to Christ?

This lesson challenged me to think about who in my life needs to hear about Jesus and how I can be intentional about multiplying my faith. It’s a reminder that our faith is not just for us… it’s meant to impact others.

3. Bowing Under the Weight: The Humility of Wheat  

  As wheat grows, it bows under the weight of its grain, symbolizing humility and worship. Pastor Jeff reminded us that true believers bow down to Jesus, honoring Him in every area of life: our work, relationships, and even our struggles.

This lesson was a call to examine whether we are living lives that glorify God. Are we bowing our hearts to Him daily, acknowledging His sovereignty and grace? Humility is not just an attitude; it’s a posture of worship that reflects our dependence on Him.  

4. The Final Harvest: Wheat to the Barn, Weeds to the Fire  

 The sermon concluded with a sobering truth from the parable of the wheat and the weeds: there will be a final harvest. Wheat (true believers) will be gathered into God’s kingdom, while weeds (counterfeit faith) will be burned. This reminder of the urgency of the Gospel struck a chord. We don’t have forever to share the hope of Jesus.

The reflection left me asking: Am I living with eternity in mind? Am I wheat or weeds? It’s a question that demands an honest answer and a renewed commitment to live for Christ.

Tending the Field: Our Role in God’s Harvest  

Pastor Jeff ended with a powerful challenge: “Let’s be wheat that produces more wheat.” We’re called not just to grow in our faith but to multiply it. Whether through serving, sharing our faith, or living a life that points others to Jesus, we all have a role to play in God’s harvest.

Reflections from the Field  

As I left the service, I couldn’t help but ask: “Am I wheat or weeds?” It’s a tough question, but one we all need to wrestle with. Am I growing? Am I multiplying my faith? Am I bowing down to Jesus daily?

If you’re like me and feel like there’s room to grow, take heart. God is patient with us, just like the farmer in the parable. He’s giving us time to grow, change, and bear fruit. But let’s not waste that time. Let’s be intentional about living for His kingdom.  

Join the Conversation  

What stood out to you from the sermon? How is God calling you to grow or multiply your faith? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

And if you missed the sermon, catch it on our YouTube channel.

Let’s be wheat, Hope Community… growing, multiplying, and worshipping Jesus together.