Parable of the Wheat and Weeds of Jesus Unveiled—
An in-depth focus on Matthew 13, the Wheat and Weeds Parable. Jesus lovingly provides us with a parable about Wheat and Weeds that is both beautiful and a prophecy. It begins with his words in Matthew 13:24-30. Verses 36-43 then explain it in further detail. This parable really serves as an eye-opener for those who wish to dig into Christian history. It is so important in our current day and will simply amaze you.
Read:
Matthew 13:24-30, “. . . “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared. “The owner’s servants came to him and said, ‘Sir, didn’t you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?’ “ ‘An enemy did this,’ he replied. “The servants asked him, ‘Do you want us to go and pull them up?’ “ ‘No,’ he answered, ‘because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.” (the NIV Bible).
Let’s Recap the Wheat and Weeds Parable for Clarity.
Jesus, in this parable, tells of a “man” who is a farmer. The farmer plants “good seed” in his “field.” However, “while everyone was sleeping” the farmer’s “enemy” came and “sowed weeds among the wheat.” As the “weeds” grew among the “wheat” the farmer’s “servants” who had fallen asleep and missed seeing the weeds planted, came to the owner and told him what had happened and asked, ‘where did these weeds come from?’
Thereupon, the owner told his servants that an “enemy” did this. His servants then asked, ‘Do you want us to go and pull these weeds out’? But the owner was fearful that they may uproot the good wheat. Therefore, he told them to simply let them grow together until the “harvest.” Then, during the harvest the owner would tell his “harvesters,” ‘First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.
Jesus Later Explains the Wheat and Weed Saying:
Matthew 13:36-43, “..“The one who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world, and the good seed stands for the people of the kingdom. The weeds are the people of the evil one, and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. “As the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. They will throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let them hear.” (the NIV Bible).
Jesus Breaks Each Aspect Down of this Wheat and Weeds Parable:
Jesus explained each aspect of this parable to his apostles, leaving no doubt about their meanings for us today. He said the Sower of the good seed represented himself, the ‘Son of Man..’ (Jesus Christ, see Matthew 25:31). The Field represents ‘the world,’ (John 3:16) or the territory the sower would sow in throughout the time of this parable, which seems to have begun when Jesus was baptized (see John 1:29-34).
Therefore, the field seems to be the world of mankind that will listen to or accept the seed of truth from God’s word. The Good Seed represents ‘people of the kingdom,’ which matures as Christians and becomes wheat. [who these ‘people specifically are’ is the key to understanding this parable].
The Weeds represent ‘people of the evil one,’ [or anyone who opposes Pure Worship]. The Enemy represents Satan, the ‘devil,’ [together with all his demon-angels on earth today (Revelation 12:9), Satan therefore leads this opposition movement.] The Harvest represents ‘end of the age,’ which no doubt includes the end of all opposition to Pure Worship on earth. The Harvesters represent ‘angels,’ the angels are appointed by God to oversee preaching of the gospel during the last days, which has now begun.
Supporting Scriptures
Read:
Matthew 25:31, “And whenever the Son of Man may come in his glory, and all the holy messengers [angels] with him, then he shall sit upon a throne of his glory.” (the YLT Bible [Young’s Literal Translation]) This Bible verse shows that Jesus is ‘the Son of Man mentioned in his parable. Also note that Jesus returns to the earth as a King, sitting on his heavenly throne!
John 3:16, “God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die.” (the CEV Bible [Contemporary English Version]). This scripture teaches us that the field in Jesus’ parable is the ‘world’ of mankind. That is, everyone is given a chance to become a Pure Worshiper of God.
John 1:29-34, “The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’ I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.” And John bore witness: “I saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him, but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.” (the ESV Bible). Jesus began his work as a minister after being baptized by John. Jesus was here anointed by God to do the work of planting the ‘good seed’.
Pause and look these scriptures up in your own copy of the Bible. Here, John gives us a witness about the baptism of Jesus Christ our savior.
Additional Supporting Scriptures
Revelation 12:9, “The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.” (the NIV Bible.) This shows that the Enemy Satan, the ‘devil,’ together with all his demon-angels are on earth today leading the whole world of ungodly mankind as far from the “Wheat-Class” as he can.
Revelation 14:6, “Then I saw another angel flying in midair, with an eternal Gospel (good news) to tell to the inhabitants of the earth, to every race and tribe and language and people.” (the AMPC Bible.) This verse shows that during the ‘Harvest Time’ of Jesus’ Parable, the angel of God is leading Pure Worshiper to people here in Satan’s world. Why? To free them from this ungodly world!
Supplemental Information on Revelation 14:6
Revelation 14:6 teaches us that the angels are using Pure Worshipers, on earth today, to help them deliver Bible truths to mankind. We know this for many reasons, but the main reason is this, we simply do not have angels appearing to us and asking us to study the Bible with them. Secondly, take note. we are in the last days of this ‘age’, when the angels are said to be delivering this “good news” message—through God’s Pure Worshipers. Thirdly, in biblical times, when messengers from God was sent out, it was viewed as if God himself was there, delivering that message. Likewise, today, when the angels of God use Pure Worshipers on earth to teach Pure Worship to others, it’s as if, the angel himself was doing the teaching.
Supplemental Information on John 3:16, the CEV Bible
Unlike the Contemporary English Version of the Bible (CEV), most Bible-scholars translate John 3:16 to read “everyone who believes in him.” However, the CEV Bible-scholar preferred this English wording to show that this Greek word goes much further than simply believing in Jesus as our savior. This version shows that we must exercise faith in him. Other scholars have used a similar wording, see this verse in the NWT, which reads, “everyone exercising faith in him,” showing action or ‘spirit’ is needed for Pure Worship (John 4:24).
Read:
John 4:24, “God is a Spirit, and those worshipping him must worship with spirit and truth..”
[End of Supplemental Information]
Digging Deeper into Who the ‘People’ of the Kingdom Are
Since the key to understanding this parable is knowing who the ‘people of the kingdom.’ are, let us dig deeper and let the Bible answer this questions. First let’s look at this Greek word translated ‘people,’ which is “υἱοὶ” (huioi). But can you speak Greek? I certainly cannot!—So, how do we know what this Greek word really means. Well you can do a search for ‘Greek Lexicons: υἱοὶ” (huioi)’ and spend many-hours researching the word υἱοὶ” (huioi), for a clear understanding.
However, I myself love comparing several Bibles to one another. Many of these Bibles were translated by a team of Bible scholars who already know Bible-Greek. I have 52 Bibles I can access quickly to compare this NIV Bible verse with, which reads ‘people of the kingdom.’ So, let’s do that first.
When I compared 52 different Bible translations to the Greek word “υἱοὶ” (huioi), 23 translated it as “sons of the kingdom,” 19 Bibles read, “children of the kingdom,” only 10 translated it as “people of the kingdom,” or “people who belong to the kingdom,” 1 said “followers of the kingdom,” and finally, only 1 said “these are the sons of the reign.”
Supplemental Information on this Verse from These 52 Bibles
When comparing Matthew 13:38, “people of the kingdom,” to 52 different Bibles, the word ‘sons‘ and ‘children‘ were used a total of 40 times by these Greek scholars, while ‘people‘ and ‘followers‘ was used only 12 times.
Sons and Children are closely related English words, but the Greek word actually means ‘sons.’ So why did 12 Bible-scholars, who know this Greek word means sons, translate it as ‘people‘ or ‘followers.’ It appears that they were trying to avoid the male gender of the word ”sons” to include women.
Too General and Not Necessary
These three English words, people, and children, or followers are simply too general in meaning for us to fully understand this scripture’s meaning. It’s also worth noting that using these three English words was not necessary in order to include women. This is because the Bible often uses the plural male gender to signify both men and women, such as the word ‘brothers’.
We have now learned that all 52-Bibles should have translated the Greek word “υἱοὶ” (huioi) as “sons.”
This is really important because the problem with using other English words, in all likelihood, will convey a totally different meaning than the word ‘sons.’ It is especially so when we consider that the Greek word “υἱοὶ” (huioi) often signifies, not just a biological relationship, but it may also signify a position of honor, inheritance, and a close relationship with God, especially when used to describe believers as “sons of the kingdom” or “children of God.”
[End of Supplemental Information]
Dig Deeper—Sons of the Reign – The YLT Bible
In What Sense Are They Sons?
Since the word ‘sons’ includes both male and female, in what sense are they ‘sons‘? Are they considered to be ‘only begotten’ sons of the Father? No, it is likely that Jesus will forever hold that unique position. So, whose sons are they, and how do they become sons? The ‘good seed‘ in the parable of the Wheat and Weeds are adopted sons of God, as Ephesians 1:5 teaches us.
Let’s look at Supporting Scriptures for the Fine Seed being ‘Sons’ of the Kingdom
Read:
Ephesians 1:5, “having foreordained us to the adoption of sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will,” (the YLT Bible [Young’s Literal Translation]). Note that these ‘sons’, and ‘daughters,’ are adopted sons of God through Jesus to Himself [that is, Jehovah] (look up Romans 8:15-16 in your copy of the Bible).
Pause and Reflect
What is the focus of this parable of the Wheat and Weeds about? Is it not the ‘good or fine seed’. But why call this ‘good seed’? Does this not imply something special about this seed? After all, there is nothing wrong with regular seed. So referring to these sons of the kingdom as good, or fine seed would seem to separate them for a special purpose within God’s plan. The answer is that this term clearly connects them to the book of Revelation. There this book says of them that they “. . . will be Kings and Priest and rule with Christ for a thousand years.” (Revelation 20:6).
How Can We Be Sure?
A Special Purpose and Role
Firstly, the term “good seed” (or “fine seed”) emphasizes the special purpose and role of the “sons of the kingdom.” These individuals are not just ordinary Pure Worshipers of God. No, they are set apart for a specific mission and destiny within God’s plan to restore the Garden of Eden back to earth. This designation highlights their purity, their dedication, and their role in God’s Kingdom.
Having a Connection to the Book of Revelation
Secondly, this idea of them being set apart for a special purpose does indeed connect with the teachings in the book of Revelation. Revelation 5:10 and 20:6 speak of those who will be kings and priests and will reign with Christ for a thousand years. These verses indicate that certain followers of Christ will have a unique role in God’s Kingdom, ruling and serving alongside Christ.
Read:
Revelation 5:10, “And You have made them a kingdom (royal race) and priests to our God, and they shall reign [as kings] over the earth!” (the ANPC Bible). This sets the ‘good seed’ of Jesus’ parable apart as sons of a royal kingdom, which will be priest of God. Revelation 20:6, “Great blessings belong to those who share in this first resurrection. They are God’s holy people [the good seed]. The second death has no power over them. They will be priests for God and for Christ. They will rule with him for 1000 years.” (the ERV Bible) This shows that they a God’s holy people. Both these scriptures show that the good seed are set apart for a special position as adopted sons of God.
Symbolism of Rulership and Priesthood
Thirdly, referring to the “sons of the kingdom” as “good seed” also symbolizes their preparedness and suitability for these roles. Just as good seed produces a bountiful harvest, these individuals will bring about spiritual fruitfulness and contribute to the fulfillment of God’s purposes. Their role as kings and priests implies leadership, guidance, and service as kings in the millennial reign alongside Christ Jesus.
Separation from the World
Lastly, the distinction of being “good seed” also implies a separation from the world and its influences. These individuals are cultivated by God, nurtured by His teachings, and destined for a future that aligns with His divine plan. This separation is not just about moral purity but also about being chosen for a divine purpose, (James 4:4).
Read:
James 4:4, “You adulterers! Don’t you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? . . ,” (the NLT Bible)
Supplemental Information – (Revelation 20:6 ‘Second Death’, and ‘ First Resurrection’; Revelation 20:14 ‘Death and Hell’ Cast into the Lake of Fire)
Revelation 20:6 speaks of the ‘first resurrection’ and the ‘second death’. Revelation 20:14 symbolically pictures ‘death and hell’ as being cast into ‘the lake of fire’. What are these symbols, yes, what does all this mean?
What is the Second Death?
When Revelation 20:6 speaks of the second death, which this ‘good seed’ is no part of, what is it talking about? “Great blessings belong to those who share in this first resurrection. They are God’s holy people [the good seed]. The second death has no power over them. They will be priests for God and for Christ. They will rule with him for 1000 years,” (the ERV Bible).
The second death mentioned in this verse, which has no power over the ‘good seed’ is the main focus point of the Parable of the Wheat and Weeds. It refers to the final death after the 1,000-year reign of Jesus Christ.
This second death is the ultimate consequence for those who do not live righteously during the period following Armageddon and throughout the millennium. It also applies to those resurrected during this time. Everyone will be judged according to their deeds during this thousand-year period. (See Revelation 20:6; Revelation 20:14).
The First Resurrection?
What is the ‘first resurrection?’ This is not a study of the book of revelation. So, suffice it to say, that the ‘first resurrection’ is the resurrection of the Sons of the Kingdom. This small group of Christians has been handpicked by God, and judged worthy of not having a part of the ‘second death.’
The ‘first resurrection’ occurs before Armageddon. Therefore this allows these individuals to take their seats with Jesus as kings and priests in the newly established Kingdom of the Heavens. With Jesus as the primary King, this smaller group of kings serves as his under-shepherds.
Death and Hell Symbolically Cast into the Lake of Fire
Read:
Revelation 20:14, “And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.” (BRG Bible). This scripture finds its fulfillment at the end of the 1,000-year reign of Jesus Christ. Here, the common grave of mankind, symbolized as ‘hell,’ and death itself are cast into the lake of fire. This represents a complete and final end to both.
In the verses preceding verse 14, it symbolically describes people who are alive yet referred to as ‘dead’. Revelation 20:11-13,”And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne.” These ‘dead’ are individuals who lived during the 1,000-year reign of Jesus Christ.
Why Pictured as Being Dead
Why are these people, who are alive, depicted as ‘dead’? Because they are the millions or billions of people who will be resurrected during this reign, after the first resurrection. When contrasting these individuals with those granted everlasting life in the first resurrection, they are considered ‘dead’ until they are granted everlasting life at the end of the 1,000-year reign of Christ.
In Summary… What is the Good Seed of Jesus’ Parable of the Wheat and Weeds?
This ‘Good Seed’ refers to ‘God’s holy people,’ handpicked by God and set aside for the special privilege of working alongside Christ for 1,000 years. They will have no part in the ‘second death,’ which is the death that some may experience at the end of the one-thousand-year reign of Jesus Christ. The first death is the death that every human experiences as a result of inherited sin from our forefather and mother, Adam and Eve.
[End of Supplemental Information]
Back to the Parable of the Wheat and Weeds
It’s clear that this parable of Jesus in Matthew 13, beginning with verse 24, is not about “Good versus Evil.” This is contrary to what many pastors of Christendom have asserted. No, after Jesus was baptized and began His three-and-a-half-year ministry, Matthew 4:17 tells us what His primary focus would be. It reads, “From that time on Jesus began to preach, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” (the NIV Bible). This introduces Jesus’ public ministry and clearly states that Jesus’ primary message would be about the Kingdom of Heaven.
The Parable of the Wheat and Weeds is no different. Jesus gave us a history that began with his baptism and ends in the reestablished Garden of Eden on earth. This is after the 1,000-year reign of Christ.
Not Convinced Yet? Further Analysis
Let’s look at our 52 Bibles and dig deeper into what this Greek phrase means.
Hats off to Young’s Literal Translation. Of all the 52 Bibles we compared above, I would give the YLT Bible an A+. This is because of how it translated verse 38. It reads, “and the field is the world, and the good seed, these are the sons of the reign. . . .”
Here, ‘Young’s Literal Translation’ shows that these ‘sons‘ will be part of a ‘reign’. In order to have a reign, you must have a Kingdom. This means that the ‘sons’ will mature into wheat, and the wheat-class of Pure Worshipers will be reigning as Kings. But what Kingdom will they reign over?
This wheat-class is linked to ‘The kingdom of heaven‘. Jesus began the illustration when he said, “The kingdom of heaven is like…” Therefore, Jesus is sowing good seed that will grow and mature as wheat. When harvested, the mature wheat will one day “reign” in the Heavenly Kingdom with Jesus as their King. In other words, the wheat-class could be likened to under-shepherds. Perhaps like a city’s mayor could be likened to an under-shepherd of a governor for a state within the USA.
The Bible does not break it down like that (especially in prophetic books such as Daniel, Ezekiel, or Revelation). It simply tells us they are kings with Christ. We know they are under-shepherds by simply reading the context.
Now, lets look at Pure Worshipers of God as one Group. First we will ask…..
Does This Mean that all Pure Worshipers will Reign as Kings in the Kingdom of the Heavens?
Our sub-header presents a good question. Does this mean that all faithful Pure Worshipers will reign with Jesus as Kings in the Kingdom of the Heavens? Are all Pure Worshipers “foreordained us to the adoption of sons through Jesus Christ to Himself?” (Ephesians 1:5). No. How can we be so sure?
Let’s let the Bible Answer these questions for us.
The Bible’s Answer -Will all Pure Worshipers Receive a Heavenly Reward?
The simple answer is no. But lets look at the Bible, and let it tell us.
First, we’ll look in the Bible to see when this ‘good seed began’.
Next, we’ll look at scripture that show that not all Pure Worshipers will go to heaven and rule as Kings.
Then we’ll show from the Bible, that there is both a heavenly and earthly group all serving God as one.
Afterwards, we’ll look at this Parable and see if it agrees with everything the Bible teaches about these two groups of Pure Worshipers.
This and more will be covered in Part two of this series
[End of Wheat and Weeds Part One – To return to our main page here. What is a mentor click here].
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