21 February 2025
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Jesus said therefore, \u2018What is the kingdom of God like? And to what should I compare it? It is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in the garden; it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.\u2019 And again he said, \u2018To what should I compare the kingdom of God? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened.\u2019<\/span><\/p>\n Reflection<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n The contrast between the growth evoked in Jesus\u2019s two parables and the shrinking United Reformed Church seems stark. But is it? I hope we would acknowledge that God\u2019s reign and influence is much broader than what we see in visible church life. The British State has gradually taken on much, but by no means all, of the charitable work undertaken in the past by churches. Education, provision for the poor, medical care, and housing are just four examples of reliefs previously provided by the churches that are now provided by the State in the form of schooling, benefits, the National Health Service, and council or association housing. <\/span> 21 February 2025 St Luke 13: 18 – 21 Jesus said therefore, \u2018What is the kingdom of God like? And to what should I compare it? It is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in the garden; it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in … <\/p>\n
It is understandable if Christians regard the shrinking membership and marginalization of the churches\u2019 influence in civic life as a failure. However, one could argue that the State taking on the churches\u2019 charitable functions is an outstanding example of the kingdom of God\u2019s mustard-seed-growth and society-leavening success. The principle that each citizen is entitled to have basic needs provided (Luke 12:29-31) is recognised by the State, even if the State is unable to meet demand. In comparison, the welfare provision in some other nations shows that the Christian social democratic model is by no means universal. In many of these other nations, it is notable that religion often still attracts considerable adherence and provides a patchwork of social relief. <\/span>
Yet, especially in social democracies, the other aspect of God\u2019s kingdom as \u201cchallenge and choice, believe the good news, repent and rejoice\u201d (Bryn Rees) seems to have dwindling appeal. But I wonder: Is today\u2019s visible Church a more honest and realistic remnant when compared with the past? Shorn of its previous civic and social status, today\u2019s remnant Church is liberated to share and live out the good news experienced in confessing \u2018Jesus is Lord.\u2019 This confession liberates us from a destructive model of growth-at-all-costs. Instead, a remnant church sustained by God\u2019s grace can grow in kindness, gratitude and joy. These humble virtues attract others.<\/span>
Prayer<\/span><\/strong>
O God of vitality and flourishing,<\/span>
save the Church from limiting your activity<\/span>
to worldly models of growth.<\/span>
Instead, like the astonishing mustard seed<\/span>
and the permeating yeast,<\/span>
help the Church to rejoice when your kingdom-values<\/span>
are taken up by structures and State.<\/span>
Inspire your Church to reflect the good news of your grace<\/span>
in growing kindness, gratitude and joy,<\/span>
through Jesus Christ our Lord.<\/span>
Amen<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"