The Parables Of ChristExemplo

"Yeast"

Yeast is a living fungus, and yet is inactive. Heat and moisture are needed to “bring it back to life.” In Jesus' list of Parables in Matthew 13, he likens the kingdom to yeast. Immediately following the parable of the mustard seed, it seems in the context that Jesus is likening kingdom-faith to dormant and inactive yeast. This faith is to be made alive by the moisture and sunlight of Jesus' life and resurrection. He likened his kingdom to this mixture, in that if faith is properly exposed to his light and the water of his word, it would grow into a body of “bread” that would grow up and form a tree from which creation would draw and flourish.

Jesus often used food imagery as meals were central to Jewish culture and are so central to Scripture’s narrative as well. He was clear that the religious Pharisees contained a leaven all the same, and if exposed to their heat and moisture, their religion would grow up to produce a much more bitter tasting dough. In Jesus' mind, these two types of leaven, though small, would grow up to lead to very different promises and futures. The leaven of the Pharisees was one that sought the place of honor, that exploited the poor and the less learned, and wielded judgment over the heads of people struggling with sin. If the Pharisees were to plan a dinner, they would only invite themselves. If the rulers of that day were to store up treasures, it would only go to supplying their needs and building up their acclaim.

Jesus’ yeast was, and is much different. His yeast grows up to be life-giving. His feasts are inviting, and his bread is offered to all in the hopes that they will dine with the Father in his kingdom through the work of the Son and by the power of the Holy Spirit.

As we read we must consider the aim of our life. What kind of yeast is currently growing in our lives? What kind of meal, and aroma is our life sending into the nostrils of those that watch and come in contact with us? Are we going to the right feast, and are we creating a life of hospitality that will help those around us flourish?

Ask yourself these questions as you read these parables.