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I. God carries on His work of grace by THE INSTRUMENTALITY OF MEN — "As if a man should cast seed."

II. This work of grace is often for some time UNPERCEIVED. Thus the seed of Divine grace sown in the heart is frequently there when not discerned. It is often concealed owing to the gradual and imperceptible manner in which it is produced; by the privacy of a man's situation, and because of the natural timidity of his temper. It should excite the prayer, "Let Thy work appear unto Thy servant," etc.

III. Where this work of grace exists it must sooner or later APPEAR — "Springeth and groweth up."

IV. It is GRADUAL in its growth — "First the blade," etc. For some time knowledge, faith, love, hope, joy, are small and feeble. But gradually the believer gathers strength. He grows in knowledge and hatred of sin. But let not the weakest be discouraged; the tenderness of Jesus is a strong consolation.

V. The work of grace is BENEFICIAL IN ITS PRESENT EFFECTS — "When the fruit is brought forth." The fruit of piety towards God and of usefulness to men.

VI. This work of grace is glorious in its FINAL RESULT — "Immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come." The gathering of saints to heaven is God's harvest. The value which God attaches to His own people, and the tender care which He exercises over them. When this work is done they are gathered into heaven.

1. Has the Word of God been sown in your hearts? You have it in your Bibles, but have you received it?

2. You that seem to receive the Word, what evidence have you of its growth?

3. What prospect have you of this glorious result?

(T. Kidd.)

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KJV: And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;

WEB: He said, "The Kingdom of God is as if a man should cast seed on the earth,