Sunday 5 October 2025
The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” The Lord replied, “If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you." (vs 5-6)
Background
When studying a Bible passage, it is advisable to take a look at the preceding verses in order to see it in context. Therefore, it can be noted that Jesus had set his disciples (his followers) tasks. They were not to be stumbling blocks to the little ones (v. 2); to be on their guard and to forgive someone who does wrong to them, even if again and again they carried on doing it! (vs 3-4) No wonder the apostles (those Jesus placed in a leadership role) asked for more faith! The apostles had not yet learned that they needed to be open to God’s power, that is, to have faith. Jesus’ response to them is reassuring, he tells them that they have all the faith they could need.
Very often Jesus spoke in a kind of ‘picture language’, as was the Eastern custom, which helped his listeners understand what he was saying. In verses 5-6 above, by comparing faith to a tiny mustard seed, Jesus was saying that even seemingly impossible things can be done if a person has faith. Verses 7-10 are a reminder that when a person has done what is asked of them and has done their very best, they have only done what they were called to do. It is not so much about what humans can do, but in comparison, how great God’s power is – what God can do is limitless. These verses highlight how important it is to be open to God’s power and to have a trusting faith. What may seem to be impossible, is possible with God (see Philippians 4:13).
To Ponder:
- How can you live up to the tasks that are set before you this day? What resources do you need?
- Following Jesus challenges his followers. What do you find challenging about having faith? When have you had to ask God for more faith?
Prayer
Lord, following you can have its challenges. Help us to be open to your message to us, and to do the best that we can this day; to have faith and trust in your power at work within us. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Ann Fox
The Revd Fox is Superintendent Minister of Tadcaster Circuit. She is called to serve alongside others and enjoys caring for older people and receiving inspiration from children and young people. She has recently enjoyed being with a group of young people from her circuit at 3Generate, the Methodist event for young people aged 4–18 years.