Introduction

• Matthew 13:24-30

• Matthew 13:36-43

• Ezekiel 20:38

• Jeremiah 31:31-33

• Acts 1:6-7

• Matthew 13:37

1. The Sower of Good Seed - Jesus

• Matthew 13:37

2. The Field and Good Seed - the World and the Followers of Christ

• Matthew 13:38

3. The Tares - Fake Christians/Unbelievers

• Matthew 13:38

• Matthew 13:25

• Matthew 13:39

What do we do?

• Matthew 13:28-30

• Matthew 13:39-43

• Ephesians 2:1-4

4. The Devil - What do we know about the Devil?

• Matthew 13:39

• 2 Corinthians 11:26

• Galatians 1:6-9

• 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4

• 1 John 4:4

Application

• Get to work. Go make disciples of Jesus

• Recognize the world of the Devil - Jesus does

• We better listen to Jesus.

  • Matthew 13:43

Warm-Up

Have you ever misunderstood someone’s motives or character, only to realize later you were wrong? What happened when the truth finally became clear?

Read Matthew 13:24–30 and Matthew 13:36–43

The Sower of Good Seed

Read: Matthew 13:37

What does it mean for Jesus to be the One who plants the good seed?

How does this shape our confidence in the mission of the church?

Insight: Jesus initiates the kingdom. Growth, identity, and final judgment all belong to Him—not us.

The Field & the Good Seed

Read: Matthew 13:38

Why do you think Jesus says the field is the world rather than the church building?

What does this say about where believers are meant to live and witness?

Read Jeremiah 31:31–33

What does God’s covenant create in people?

Read Acts 1:6–7 What were the disciples most concerned about?

How should these two passages shape our values and focus as His people living in the world?

The Tares

Read: Matthew 13:25, 38–39

Why is it significant that the tares are sown secretly and look similar to wheat until harvest?

What consequences or dangers come from trying to identify and uproot tares too early?

The Devil

Read: Matthew 13:39

What other scriptures talk about the Devil’s schemes? Share how they can impact the wheat living in the world.

How can believers be ready and defeat the Devil's schemes?

What Are We Supposed to Do?

Read: Matthew 13:28–30; 39–43

Why does Jesus command patience instead of immediate separation?

How does this parable protect the church from becoming judgmental or violent? How can we stay spiritually alert without becoming suspicious, fearful, or judgmental of everyone?

What comfort do you find in knowing Jesus promises ultimate justice?

Prayer Prompt:

Ask God for patience, discernment, courage and faithfulness in mission, and trust in Jesus’ final justice.