By studying the parable of the mustard seed in youth group, you’ll remind teens they’re not too small or insignificant to make a difference. God specializes in turning the smallest seeds into faith that is powerful, rooted, and life-giving.
Many of us have probably felt as if we can’t make a difference. Teenagers especially can assume their prayers, faith, and impact won’t amount to much.
Jesus addresses that in his parable of the mustard seed (see Matthew 13:31-32). In a few lines, he reminds us that God turns the smallest seed into a powerful force. Then in Matthew 17:20, Jesus says that faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains.
Growing Faith: The Parable of the Mustard Seed
The mustard seed is incredibly tiny. Yet it grows into a shrub or tree more than 10 feet tall. That’s the explosive, transformational growth from small beginnings that Jesus wants us to picture. It applies not only to the kingdom of God but also to our individual faith journeys.
To lead a youth devotion about the parable of the mustard seed, adapt these Bible-based talking points:
1. Small Faith is Still Faith
Jesus never asks for perfect, polished faith. He asks for real faith. Even a little bit. Maybe you’re just starting to trust God. Maybe you have more questions than answers. That’s okay. If you’re showing up and opening your heart even a little, you’re planting mustard seed faith.
“If you have faith as small as a mustard seed…nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:20)
2. Growth Takes Time
Next up: Mustard seed doesn’t grow overnight. It’s easy to get discouraged when we don’t see immediate changes in our spiritual life. But growth in God’s kingdom often happens gradually. It happens through consistent time in prayer and Scripture. It happens when you surround yourself with believers and trust God daily.
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9)
3. Your Faith Affects Others
Notice how Jesus ends the parable: the mustard plant becomes a tree, and birds come perch in its branches. Your growing faith isn’t just for you. As you mature spiritually, others will find encouragement, hope, and wisdom through your example.
Maybe your faith story will inspire someone else to seek God. Maybe your quiet decision to follow Christ will bring peace to a hurting friend. Mustard seed faith multiplies!
More Activities on the Parable of the Mustard Seed
Discussion Questions
- How do you view the kingdom of God as a mustard seed?
- Why do you think God likes to use small beginnings?
- When have you seen a small act of faith turn into something big?
- What helps your faith grow? What hinders it?
- Whose faith has impacted your life?
- What’s one way you can plant a mustard seed this week (in words, actions, prayer)?
