Matthew 13:36

“Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.”

Context:The verse you provided is part of a larger section known as the “Parables of the Kingdom” found in Matthew 13. In this chapter, Jesus tells several parables to teach important lessons about the Kingdom of Heaven.

Setting:After teaching the Parable of the Wheat and the Tares to the multitudes, Jesus dismisses them and goes into a house. His disciples then approach Him and ask for an explanation of the parable.

Importance of Understanding Parables:The disciples’ request to understand the parable of the tares reflects their desire to gain deeper insight into the teachings of Jesus. It shows their hunger for spiritual understanding and their recognition that Jesus is the one who can provide them with the necessary interpretation.

The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares:Prior to Matthew 13:36, Jesus tells a parable about a man who sowed good seed in his field. However, an enemy comes and sows tares (weeds) among the wheat. Both the wheat and tares grow together until the time of harvest. The servants suggest pulling out the tares, but the owner advises waiting until harvest, as pulling out the tares might uproot the wheat as well. The parable highlights the coexistence of the righteous (wheat) and the wicked (tares) in the world until the judgment day.

Disciples Seeking Explanation:The disciples come to Jesus seeking an explanation of this parable. They desire to understand its deeper meaning, particularly regarding the distinction between the righteous and the wicked and how they coexist until the final judgment.

Jesus’ Response:In the following verses (Matthew 13:37-43), Jesus provides an explanation of the parable to His disciples. He identifies Himself as the sower of the good seed (the Son of Man) and explains that the good seeds represent the sons of the kingdom, while the tares represent the sons of the wicked one (the devil). Jesus explains that the harvest represents the end of the age when the angels will separate the wicked from the righteous.

Lessons and Application:The parable of the wheat and the tares teaches several important lessons. It emphasizes the reality of the coexistence of good and evil in the world. It warns against hasty judgment and premature attempts to separate the wicked from the righteous. It also highlights the ultimate accountability and judgment that will take place at the end of the age.

• As believers, we can apply this parable by recognizing the importance of patience and discernment in dealing with the presence of evil in the world. We should focus on cultivating righteousness in our own lives and trust in God’s ultimate judgment and justice. Additionally, we should be diligent in studying God’s Word and seeking His guidance to gain a deeper understanding of spiritual truths.

Remember, this study is based on Matthew 13:36 in the King James Version of the Bible. Feel free to explore other translations or consult additional commentaries for further insights into this verse and its surrounding context.