Chapter 275—The Divine Order of Growth
For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the
ear, after that the full corn in the ear.
Mark 4:28
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He who gave this parable created the tiny seed, gave it its vital properties,
and ordained the laws that govern its growth. And the truths which the
parable teaches were made a living reality in His own life. In both His
physical and His spiritual nature He followed the divine order of growth
illustrated by the plant, as He wishes all youth to do.... In childhood He did
the works of an obedient child.... But at each stage of His development He
was perfect, with the simple, natural grace of a sinless life.
The parable of the seed reveals that God is at work in nature.... There
is life in the seed, there is power in the soil; but unless an infinite power is
exercised day and night, the seed will yield no returns.... Every seed grows,
every plant develops, by the power of God....
The germination of the seed represents the beginning of spiritual life, and
the development of the plant is a beautiful figure of Christian growth. As in
nature, so in grace; there can be no life without growth. The plant must either
grow or die. As its growth is silent and imperceptible, but continuous, so is
the development of the Christian life. At every stage of development our life
may be perfect; yet if God’s purpose for us is fulfilled, there will be continual
advancement. Sanctification is the work of a lifetime. As our opportunities
multiply, our experience will enlarge, and our knowledge increase. We shall
become strong to bear responsibility, and our maturity will be in proportion
to our privileges.
The plant grows by receiving that which God has provided to sustain
its life. It sends down its roots into the earth. It drinks in the sunshine, the
dew, and the rain. It receives the life-giving properties from the air. So the
Christian is to grow by cooperating with the divine agencies.... As the plant
takes root in the soil, so we are to take deep root in Christ. As the plant
receives the sunshine, the dew, and the rain, we are to open our hearts to the
Holy Spirit.... By constantly relying upon Christ as our personal Saviour, we
shall grow up into Him in all things who is our head.
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