Mat 13:24-30, 36-43 | Family | STEP | The kingdom of heaven is likened ; the kingdom of heaven, here the visible church of Christ, is likened to a field in which the owner sows good seed, etc. Good seed ; clean wheat, representing the truths of the gospel, and those who embrace them.

Matthew 13:24-30

The kingdom of heaven is likened; the kingdom of heaven, here the visible church of Christ, is likened to a field in which the owner sows good seed, etc.

Good seed; clean wheat, representing the truths of the gospel, and those who embrace them. Tares; not our American tares, but a species of darnel bearing poisonous seeds, and having, before it comes to a head, a near resemblance to the stalks of wheat and barley. In places where Christ, by his ministers, communicates his truth, Satan and his agents will disseminate errors; and such is the state of the human heart, that they will, without cultivation, take root, spring up, and bring forth evil fruit. Men are therefore bound to take heed what they hear, as well as how they hear; for their adversary the devil goeth about, not only as a roaring lion, but also as an angel of light, seeking, in various ways, to destroy the souls of men. Brought forth fruit; when the fruit began to grow. By their principles and conduct, the difference between those who embrace the gospel and those who embrace opposite errors, is seen. Gather them up; by the process of weeding common in that country. Root up also the wheat; on account of their resemblance and connection with each other. Men cannot in this world separate entirely the wicked from the righteous, or with certainty judge as to the characters of men. That must be left to the Searcher of hearts, and to the decisions of the day of judgment. Harvest; the day of judgment.

Reapers; the angels.

Tares; the wicked.

Wheat; the righteous. Ver Mt 13:49,50.

Matthew 13:36-43

Son of man; meaning himself, dispensing truth either personally or by his servants. The field is the world; for by the appointment of Christ the good seed of the gospel is to be sown among all nations, so that the visible church shall be coextensive with the world.

Children of the kingdom; children of God not in name alone, but in reality.

Children of the wicked one; of Satan, though they be found among Christ's visible followers. Righteous; the same as "the children of the kingdom," those who have believed and obeyed the gospel.

Shine forth as the sun; be inexpressibly glorious in heaven.

Ears to hear; let all who have ears hear and believe, and so act that they may escape the wailing of the wicked, and enjoy the glory of the righteous.