Bread making is a relatively simple process of mixing together flour, water, and yeast. The yeast is used to release air bubbles into the mix and expand the dough. This process will cause the dough to expand to more than twice its original size. In one of his parables, Jesus used the activation of yeast (leaven) to describe the growth of the kingdom of heaven.
“He spoke another parable to them, “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three pecks of flour until it was all leavened.” Matthew 13:33 (NASB)
When you add yeast to bread dough mix, there is nothing that can prevent its growth. The process is steady, continuous, and irreversible. Jesus is using this parable to illustrate the way the Holy Spirit works inside of every believer. Like yeast, the Holy Spirit is an unseen force that generates dramatic change impacting our entire life. This graphic example highlights the supernatural elements of God’s plan for our lives. Like the prophets that came before him, Jesus used parables to uncover the deeper truth of his teaching.
“All these things Jesus spoke to the crowds in parables, and He did not speak to them without a parable. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet: “I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things hidden since the foundation of the world.” Matthew 13:34-35 (NASB)
When the disciples asked Jesus why he taught in parables, he basically told them he was using language that only certain people would understand. The important truth that Jesus was teaching was only intended for those whose heart was willing to receive the good news. Based on this instruction, we can surmise that the parables are considered by Jesus to be some of his most important teaching.
“Jesus answered them, “To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been granted.” Matthew 13:11 (NASB)
In other words, parables are insider information. The parables of Jesus are in some ways coded messages intended specifically for his followers. Jesus used parables to illustrate God’s hand in everything we do – even bread making. Jesus did not teach deep theoretical doctrine; he simply exposed the inner workings of God’s Creation. When we seek to know Jesus with all of our heart, his teaching takes on a whole new meaning. The parables of Jesus help us see the details that are growing the kingdom of God. Like yeast in bread, this process is steady, continuous, and irreversible.
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