Something strange is happening in the field: the farmer planted good seed, yet weeds are growing everywhere. Instead of pulling them out, he tells his workers to wait until the harvest—an answer that seems almost unbelievable. In this parable, Jesus reveals a surprising truth about our world, the presence of evil, and the day when everything will finally be set right.

Symbol = Meaning
Sower = The Son of Man
Field = The world
Good seed = Sons of the kingdom
Weeds/tares = Sons of the evil one
Enemy = The devil
Harvest = The end of the age
Reapers = Angels

THERE ARE FOUR MAJOR THEOLOGICAL THEMES

#1 The Present Reality is a Mixed Up Hot Mess.
• God’s kingdom currently exists in a world where evil remains active.

#2 Satan is Actively Opposing the Kingdom.
• The devil seeks to imitate and corrupt God’s work.
• Beware of counterfeits!

#3 God is Incredibly Patient.
• God’s deep concern for mankind is the root of His patience.
• See II Peter 3:8-9.

#4 There Will Be Final Accountability.
• At the end, God will bring ultimate justice and vindication, and righteousness will reign*.



* The true righteousness of God – grace, mercy, and love – not the counterfeit of self-righteousness!

One of the greatest messages in this parable is God’s patience.
The harvest has not come yet. That means there is still time to respond to Christ.

Scripture repeatedly reminds us that salvation begins with a response of faith and repentance:
Believe the gospel (Romans 1:16)
Repent and turn to God (Acts 3:19)
Confess Christ as Lord (Romans 10:9)
Be baptized into Christ (Romans 6:3–4)

If you know that you need to give your life to Christ, today is the day to respond.
You don’t need to wait for a better moment.
The grace of God is available right now.

Thank you for joining us today! Can we pray for you today? If so, please let us know. There will be an invitation to share at the end of the message, or you can email us at earlychurchofchrist@gmail.com.

If you would like to talk to someone about baptism or how to become part of the Early Church of Christ family, please see our minister or one of the elders, and we would love to visit with you.