The Parable of the Yeast
The Parable of the Yeast is recorded in nearly identical form by the evangelists Matthew and Luke. Through these parables - vivid illustrations drawn from daily life - Jesus conveys profound spiritual truths. Here, He uses the image of a woman kneading bread dough to describe how the Kingdom of God spreads.
The Parable of the Yeast in Matthew and Luke
"He told them still another parable: 'The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough.'"
(Matthew 13:33)
"Again he asked, 'What shall I compare the kingdom of God to? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough.'"
(Luke 13:20-21)
Explanation of the Parable of the Yeast
This parable and the Parable of the Mustard Seed that precedes it both illustrate the miraculous growth of God's Kingdom. The Kingdom of Heaven is hidden in the world - initially invisible, it grows imperceptibly until reaching full maturity.
There are multiple ways to interpret Jesus' parables:
On a global level: The dough represents the world, and the yeast symbolizes the Church gradually transforming it
On a personal level: The yeast is the divine life God places within each person - what Jesus calls the Kingdom of God. Every person is invited to let God dwell in their heart, allow the Holy Spirit to transform them, and be worked by grace. Thus, each believer becomes yeast for the world.
Discover all the Parables of God's Kingdom on Hozana:
Pray with God's Word on Hozana
Through Gospel texts, parables and teachings, Jesus wants to speak to us today and meet us in our daily lives. Let's listen to Him and pray with His Living Word! You can:
