28 For the earth bears fruit by itself: first the blade, then the head, then the full seed in the head.
29 But when the grain is ripe, immediately he applies the sickle because the harvest has come.”
30 He said, “To what shall we liken the kingdom of God, or with what parable shall we compare it?
31 It is like a grain of mustard seed which, when it is sown in the ground, is the smallest seed on earth.
32 Yet when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all shrubs, and shoots out great branches, so that the birds of the air may nest in its shade.”
33 With many such parables He spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it.
34 Without a parable He did not speak to them. But when they were alone, He expounded on all things to His disciples.