Luke Chapter 13 · Verse 18
Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it?
Original Language Analysis
Ἔλεγεν
said he
G3004
Ἔλεγεν
said he
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
1 of 13
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
τίνι
Unto what
G5101
τίνι
Unto what
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
3 of 13
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
βασιλεία
the kingdom
G932
βασιλεία
the kingdom
Strong's:
G932
Word #:
7 of 13
properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θεοῦ
of God
G2316
θεοῦ
of God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
9 of 13
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
10 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τίνι
Unto what
G5101
τίνι
Unto what
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
11 of 13
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
Historical Context
First-century Jews expected dramatic messianic intervention—military victory, restored Davidic throne, Gentile subjugation. Jesus' parables redefined kingdom expectations: not instant conquest but gradual growth, not external force but internal transformation. The mustard seed (smallest cultivated seed in Palestine) growing into a tree large enough for birds to nest illustrates disproportionate growth from humble origins. Leaven (normally a symbol of corruption in Scripture) here represents gospel's transformative power working invisibly but comprehensively through society.
Questions for Reflection
- How do these parables correct impatience about the pace of God's kingdom advancement?
- What comfort and challenge do these images of gradual growth offer to Christians engaged in long-term gospel ministry?
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus asks: 'Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it?' (τίνι ὁμοία ἐστὶν ἡ βασιλεία τοῦ θεοῦ, καὶ τίνι ὁμοιώσω αὐτήν;). The double question emphasizes the challenge of explaining God's kingdom to earthly minds. The mustard seed parable (vv.18-19) illustrates how God's kingdom begins small but grows expansive—from Jesus and twelve disciples to worldwide church. The leaven parable (vv.20-21) shows the kingdom's permeating influence—small beginning, total transformation. Both parables counter expectations of immediate, visible messianic kingdom, teaching gradual, organic growth through gospel proclamation.