(Part 3: Oh You of Little Faith: A Call to Deeper Trust)
Introduction: Faith in Small Beginnings
How much faith is “enough” for God to act? In Matthew 17:20, Jesus tells His disciples:
“Truly, I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”
This statement seems to contradict His rebuke of “little faith.” If a mustard seed is sufficient, why did Jesus chastise the disciples for their lack of faith? In this post, we’ll explore the paradox of “small faith” and discuss why the size of faith matters less than the object of that faith.
Faith as Small as a Mustard Seed
The mustard seed, one of the smallest seeds known in Jesus’ time, symbolises the potential of even the tiniest faith. The key isn’t the seed’s size but what it grows into when nurtured.
- The Power of Small Beginnings
God often uses what seems insignificant to accomplish great things. David was a shepherd boy, yet he defeated Goliath. Gideon had a small army, yet he triumphed over the Midianites.- Biblical Insight: Zechariah 4:10: “Who dares despise the day of small things?”
- Faith in a Big God
A mustard seed-sized faith is sufficient because of the greatness of the One in whom we place our trust. It’s not about the amount of faith but its focus.- Key Scripture: Jeremiah 32:17: “Ah, Sovereign Lord, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.”
Why Did Jesus Rebuke “Little Faith”?
- Little Faith Doubts God’s Presence
The disciples doubted even though Jesus was physically present with them. Their “little faith” wasn’t about size but about their failure to trust His presence and power.- Example: When Peter began to sink after walking on water, it wasn’t because his faith was small but because it wavered when he focused on the waves instead of Jesus.
- Little Faith Lacks Endurance
Faith isn’t just a momentary decision; it’s a sustained trust in God. Jesus rebuked “little faith” because it crumbled under pressure instead of growing stronger.- Biblical Insight: James 1:3: “Because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
Faith That Moves Mountains
- What Does It Mean to Move Mountains?
Jesus’ reference to moving mountains symbolises overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges. Faith doesn’t remove all obstacles but empowers us to face them with confidence in God’s ability to act.- Key Scripture: Mark 11:23: “Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them.”
- God’s Timing in Mountain-Moving Faith
Sometimes the mountain doesn’t move immediately because God is using it to grow our faith. Waiting and trusting are often part of the process.- Key Scripture: Psalm 27:14: “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”
Debate: Does Faith Depend on Us or God?
- Faith Depends on Us:
Some argue that the effectiveness of faith is tied to our conviction. The more we believe, the more likely we are to see results. This perspective emphasises personal responsibility. - Faith Depends on God:
Others contend that faith is less about us and more about God’s sovereignty. Even imperfect faith can yield results when placed in the hands of a perfect God. - Balance:
Faith requires both our active trust and reliance on God’s power. While our faith may fluctuate, God’s faithfulness remains constant.
Practical Steps to Strengthen Small Faith
- Focus on God’s Character
Shift your focus from the size of your faith to the greatness of God. Reflect on His attributes—faithfulness, power, love, and sovereignty. - Take Small Steps of Obedience
Faith grows through action. Start with small acts of trust, such as praying for guidance or stepping out of your comfort zone.- Key Action: Write down one area of life where you will take a step of faith this week.
- Nourish Your Faith Daily
Just as a mustard seed needs sunlight and water to grow, faith needs spiritual nourishment through prayer, scripture, and fellowship. - Celebrate God’s Faithfulness
Acknowledge and give thanks for the “small wins” that demonstrate God’s work in your life.
Conclusion: Faith as a Journey, Not a Destination
Faith as small as a mustard seed can accomplish the impossible because it’s rooted in the God of the impossible. Jesus’ words remind us that faith isn’t about how much we have but how deeply we trust Him.
- Closing Scripture: Ephesians 3:20: “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.”
As you reflect on your own faith, ask yourself: Am I focusing on the size of my faith or the greatness of my God?
Stay tuned for Part 4: “Is Faith Enough? Wrestling with Action and Belief.”