In the parable of the mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32), the kernel of mustard represents the Word of God. The man is Christ. The field is the earth which he created. The sowing of the mustard kernel represents the spreading of the gospel.
The mustard seed which is the least of all seeds becoming greater than all the herbs represents the least becoming the greatest. “For he who is least among you all is the one who is great” – Luke 9:48.
Becoming a tree with branches represents the cross that we take up as the Word of God changes us. “Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” – Matthew 16:24.
The bird of heaven that may come and nestle in its branches represents the Holy Spirit (“the Spirit descend as a dove from heaven” – John 1:32) that may come and dwell in you – “the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you” – John 14:17.
The mustard seed doesn’t deliver its powerful flavor until it is bruised. Similarly, I hope that when you are bruised that God will powerfully deliver you.
Dr. J. Clontz – Editor, The Comprehensive New Testament
Matthew 13:31 Another similitude proposed he to them, and said: “The kingdom of heaven is like a kernel of mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field. 32 And this is the least of all seeds; but when it is grown, it is greater than all the herbs, and becomes a tree, so that a bird of heaven may come and nestle in its branches.” (Murdock Translation of Aramaic Peshitta)
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