Matthew 13:28

French OST (Ostervald)

Et il leur dit: C'est un ennemi qui a fait cela. Et les serviteurs lui répondirent: Veux-tu donc que nous allions la cueillir?

What Does This Mean?

In this verse from Matthew's Gospel, Jesus explains that an enemy is responsible for planting weeds among the wheat in a parable. The servants ask if they should remove these weeds immediately. This highlights the tension between good and evil.

Explained for Children

Imagine you planted a beautiful garden of flowers, but someone sneaked in at night to plant thorny bushes among them. Your friends want to pull out all the thorns right away, but maybe that's not the best idea because you might accidentally uproot some flowers too.

Historical Background

The Gospel of Matthew was written by a follower of Jesus, likely a Jew with knowledge of Jewish traditions and law, aimed at both Jews and Gentiles. It reflects the early Christian community's understanding and interpretation of Jesus' teachings in a context where they faced persecution from religious authorities.

Living It Out Today

In your workplace, you might notice someone spreading negativity or undermining team spirit. You could choose to confront this directly or first seek advice from a mentor before taking action, much like considering the consequences before removing weeds that look like wheat.

Topics

• good and evil
• parables
• spiritual warfare
• decision making
• community
• sowing and reaping

Related Verses

• Genesis 3:15
• John 8:44
• Ephesians 6:10-12
• James 4:7
• Revelation 12:9

Frequently Asked Questions

Why didn't Jesus allow the servants to remove the weeds?

Jesus wanted to show that sometimes patience is necessary, as removing evil prematurely might harm the good. This teaches us about the importance of discernment in dealing with difficult situations.

How can we identify an enemy's actions today?

An enemy's actions often aim to disrupt peace and spread negativity. By staying aware of these motives, we can better protect our faith communities from harm.

What does this parable teach about evil in the world?

The parable highlights that evil exists alongside good until judgment day, encouraging believers to remain vigilant but not take hasty action without considering all consequences.

How do the servants' questions relate to our decisions?

Their questions mirror how we seek guidance before making important choices. It's a reminder of the need for wisdom and divine counsel in navigating life’s challenges.