The only way to reach the world for Christ

May 25, 2026

Dying Multiplication

===

I tell you the solemn truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains by itself alone. But if it dies, it produces much grain.

John 12:24 (NET)

===

I’ve noticed Jesus does this a lot:

Saying something that appears simple & benign, but is actually deep & complex.

Almost everyone understands the illustrations related to farming.

It’s a nearly universal experience for people across the world.

We’ve seen time and time again how plant seeds sprout from the ground, grow into something significant, and then produce lots of seeds of their own.

I’ve heard it said, “you can count the seeds in an apple but you cannot count the apples in a seed.”

Likewise, our spiritual multiplication should look the same.

The fruit of the work of the original Disciples is ongoing. We continue to be a legacy of faith for the likes of Peter, James, John, etc. Over two thousand years of generations of spiritual parents contributing to the work of heaven.

All leading to you and me.

But the only way that happens is if we die to our flesh and live to the Spirit.

It’s the Spirit working through us that produces more and more fruit.

His fruit.

We are blessed to be participating workers in this mighty labor, but by no means are we doing the bulk of the work. We’re closer to a three-year-old helping out:

Cute to watch, slows things waaaayyyyyy down, and generally makes a mess of it all.

But you know what?

That seems to be okay with God.

He loves to share this work with us.

So I’ll continue to contribute what I can and trust Him with the rest.

— Ricky Ketchum

Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the ESV®Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Daily Scripture Minute

Discussion about this post

Ready for more?