New Testament
Matthew 13:24
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Jesus told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who planted good seed in his field.
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Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:
What Matthew 13:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus introduces a parable that illustrates the nature of the kingdom of heaven. He compares it to a man who sows good seed in his field, which symbolizes the good things that God plants in the world. The act of planting good seed represents the spread of God's word and the establishment of His kingdom among people. This parable sets the stage for understanding how the kingdom grows and interacts with the world, including the presence of both good and bad elements. The good seed signifies the faithful and righteous, while the field represents the world where these seeds are sown. This imagery helps listeners grasp the idea that while God's kingdom is pure and good, it exists in a world that may also contain challenges and opposition. The parable encourages believers to recognize the importance of nurturing the good that God has planted in their lives and communities, as they await the full realization of His kingdom.
How to apply Matthew 13:24 to your life
This verse encourages us to actively participate in spreading goodness and truth in our lives. Just as the man sows good seed, we should seek to share God's love and teachings with others, nurturing faith in our communities. Our actions can help cultivate a positive environment that reflects the values of the kingdom of heaven.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Parables by the Sea (Matthew 13:1–52)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 13:24 mean?
Matthew 13:24 introduces a parable where Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a man who plants good seed in his field. This symbolizes the good things God establishes in the world and illustrates how His kingdom grows amidst both good and bad elements.
What is the meaning of 'good seed' in Matthew 13:24?
In Matthew 13:24, 'good seed' represents the faithful and righteous individuals who embody God's teachings. It signifies the positive influence and truth that God spreads in the world through His followers.
How does Matthew 13:24 relate to spiritual growth?
Matthew 13:24 relates to spiritual growth by showing that as good seed is sown, it represents the nurturing of faith and righteousness in believers' lives. It encourages individuals to cultivate the goodness that God has planted within them.
What can we learn from the parable in Matthew 13:24?
From the parable in Matthew 13:24, we learn the importance of actively spreading goodness and truth in our lives. It encourages us to nurture faith in our communities, reflecting the values of the kingdom of heaven.
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