Matthew 13:39

and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels.

Study Bible

And the enemy who sows them
This phrase identifies the antagonist in the parable of the weeds. The "enemy" is a direct reference to the devil, who is often depicted in Scripture as the adversary of God and His people. The Greek word for "enemy" is "ἐχθρός" (echthros), which implies hostility and opposition. In the context of the parable, the enemy's act of sowing weeds among the wheat symbolizes the devil's efforts to corrupt and undermine the work of God by introducing false teachings and evil influences among believers.

is the devil
The term "devil" comes from the Greek "διάβολος" (diabolos), meaning "slanderer" or "accuser." This name highlights the devil's role in spreading lies and deceit. Throughout the Bible, the devil is portrayed as the ultimate source of evil, working tirelessly to lead people away from God. In this parable, Jesus emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare and the presence of evil in the world, reminding believers to remain vigilant and discerning.

The harvest
In biblical times, harvest was a significant event, representing both the culmination of a season's work and a time of judgment. The Greek word "θερισμός" (therismos) is used here, indicating a gathering or reaping. In the parable, the harvest symbolizes the final judgment when God will separate the righteous from the wicked. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages that describe the end times as a harvest, where the faithful are gathered into God's kingdom.

is the end of the age
The phrase "end of the age" refers to the eschatological conclusion of the current world order. The Greek term "συντέλεια" (sunteleia) means "completion" or "consummation." This concept is central to Christian eschatology, which anticipates the return of Christ and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. The "end of the age" signifies a time of fulfillment when God's purposes are fully realized, and His justice is executed.

and the harvesters are angels
Angels, or "ἄγγελοι" (angeloi) in Greek, are depicted as God's messengers and servants throughout Scripture. In this context, they are the agents of divine judgment, tasked with separating the righteous from the wicked at the end of the age. This role underscores the authority and power of God, who commands the heavenly hosts to carry out His will. The involvement of angels in the harvest highlights the supernatural dimension of the final judgment and the assurance that God's justice will be perfectly administered.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Enemy (The Devil)
In this parable, the enemy is identified as the devil, who sows weeds among the wheat. This represents the spiritual adversary who seeks to disrupt God's work.

2. The Harvest
Symbolizes the end of the age, a time of judgment and separation between the righteous and the wicked.

3. The Harvesters (Angels)
Angels are depicted as the agents of God who will carry out the final judgment, gathering the righteous and the wicked.

4. The Field
While not mentioned directly in this verse, the field represents the world where both good and evil coexist until the time of harvest.

5. The Sower (Son of Man)
Although not in this specific verse, earlier in the parable, the sower is identified as the Son of Man, Jesus, who sows good seed.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Enemy
Recognize the reality of spiritual warfare and the devil's role in sowing discord and deception in the world.

The Certainty of Judgment
The end of the age is a definitive event where God will judge the world. Live with an eternal perspective, knowing that our actions have eternal consequences.

Role of Angels
Angels are ministering spirits who serve God's purposes, including executing His judgment. Trust in God's sovereign plan and His use of angels in the spiritual realm.

Coexistence of Good and Evil
Until the end of the age, good and evil will coexist. Christians are called to be light in the world, influencing it for good while awaiting the final harvest.

Preparation for the Harvest
Be diligent in faith and practice, ensuring that you are among the wheat, not the weeds. Engage in regular self-examination and repentance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the role of the devil as the enemy influence your daily spiritual walk and vigilance against temptation?

2. In what ways can the certainty of a future judgment impact your priorities and decisions today?

3. How can the knowledge that angels are involved in God's plan for the end of the age encourage you in your faith journey?

4. What practical steps can you take to be a positive influence in a world where good and evil coexist?

5. Reflect on other scriptures that discuss the end times. How do they enhance your understanding of Matthew 13:39 and its implications for your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 14:14-20
This passage also describes a harvest at the end of the age, where angels play a role in reaping the earth, paralleling the imagery in Matthew 13:39.

Daniel 12:1-3
Daniel speaks of a time of distress and the deliverance of God's people, with a resurrection and judgment, echoing the themes of separation and finality found in Matthew 13:39.

2 Thessalonians 1:6-10
Paul describes the return of Christ and the punishment of the wicked, aligning with the concept of the end-time judgment and separation.