MEDITATIONS FROM TIlE PARABLES OF JESUS
THE CORN OF WHEAT
Read John 12:23-25
When a kernel of wheat is safely kept and preserved, it remains only one kernel of wheat. If, however, it is planted in the ground, it will produce many more kernels of wheat. Jesus used this illustration from nature to point out that He, should He preserve His life and be unwilling to die for the sins of the world, would remain alone and save no one. But by dying on the cross for the sin of the world and being buried in the tomb, He would produce much fruit. He would provide salvation for mankind, and all who believe on Him would be saved.
Jesus did not try to preserve his earthly
life and avoid suffering the just punishment for our sins. He obeyed God's Law
perfectly in our stead and then willingly laid down His life for us sinners.
"Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures...He was buried...He
rose again the third day according to the Scriptures" (I Cor. 15:3,4).
Like the grain of wheat that must sacrifice itself in order to produce more
wheat, so Jesus Christ sacrificed Himself to save mankind from sin and its
eternal punishment. He died that sinful men might receive forgiveness of sins and
become children of God through faith in Him. His resurrection on the third day
is proof that His holy sacrifice was acceptable to God as full payment for the
sins of the world (Rom.
This little illustration of the kernel of
wheat can also be applied to our lives. We cannot save ourselves or anyone else
from sin and hell by our death; but since Christ has redeemed us by His
innocent sufferings and death, we are to live our lives for Him (II Cor.
Grant that I only Thee may love and seek those things which are above till I behold Thee face to face, 0 Light eternal, through Thy grace. Amen. (TLH, Hymn #398, Verse 4)