Matthew 13:36

French (BDS) 2015 (La Bible du Semeur 2015)

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, Jesus has just finished teaching a parable about the tares of the field to a crowd and sends them away. He then goes into a house where his disciples ask him for an explanation of the parable he just taught.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing in a big playground with your friends. Suddenly, Jesus comes and tells all the kids about a story called 'the tares of the field.' After everyone leaves, your best friends come up to Jesus and ask him what his story means because they really want to understand it better.

Historical Background

Matthew, one of Jesus' disciples, wrote this in the gospel of Matthew around 80-90 AD. He was writing primarily for a Jewish audience familiar with agricultural settings and parables as teaching tools. The context involves Jesus explaining spiritual truths through everyday farming scenarios.

Living It Out Today

Today, we can apply this by seeking deeper understanding when we encounter confusing situations or teachings. Just like the disciples who came to Jesus for clarity, we should also ask questions and seek wisdom from trusted sources.

Topics

faithunderstandingparableteachingdiscipleshipspiritual growth

Related Verses

Genesis 45:1-8Matthew 24:36-37Luke 8:9-10John 16:25-26Ephesians 5:15

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the disciples ask Jesus to explain the parable?
They asked because they needed deeper insight into what Jesus was teaching. They understood that there might be spiritual truths hidden in the story, which they could miss without clarification.
What can we learn from Jesus sending the crowd away before explaining to his disciples?
It teaches us about the value of private instruction and the importance of a closer relationship with God. Sometimes understanding comes through more intimate settings or personal reflection.
How does this relate to other parables in Matthew?
This verse is part of a larger section where Jesus uses various parables to teach about the kingdom of heaven, showing that his teachings often required deeper explanation and understanding beyond surface-level meanings.
Why do we need explanations for parables today?
Parables are rich in meaning but can be complex. Seeking explanations helps us draw out practical applications for our lives, ensuring we don't miss the spiritual truths Jesus intended to convey.
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