Bible Knowledge Project: Matthew 13

Read: Matthew 13

Matthew 13 begins the section known as “The Kingdom Parables.” Parables are usually fictional stories designed to make one central point or highlight one main theme. They are designed to hide the truth from the unbelieving and demonstrate it to the elect. Unfortunately, parables have been badly abused in Christian literature, making them say many things they were not designed to communicate. Therefore, it is essential to interpret them to understand them as offered by Christ correctly.

13:1-9; 18-23

This section is known as the parable of the sower. The focus is on the effect the Word of God has on those who heart it. Jesus points to four different responses. One of those responses will occur each time the Word of God is preached, read, or heard. The question is: how do you respond to the Word of God.

13:24-30

This section is known as the parable of the weeds. The main point of this parable is that there will be enemies of the church in this life. Unfortunately, they often grow alongside the faithful. There will be a judgment that will occur at the hand of the just Judge who must do what is right.

13:31-33

The parable of the mustard seed is very short. Yet, it communicates a comforting lesson: The kingdom of God started small, but it continues to grow and grow. Men cannot stop the success of God’s kingdom.

13:44-46

The lesson of these two parables is simple: to be brought into the kingdom of God is worth more than all other things of this life.

13:46

The parable of the net teaches that at the end of the age, at the final judgment, the Lord will separate the evil from the good and judge them accordingly.

These parables are crucial to a proper understanding of the kingdom of God. So spend some time thinking through each one.

Application: These parables speak to matters related to the Kingdom of God. In the parable of the soil and seed, which one are you?

Learn: The meanings of each of these parables.