New Testament
Matthew 13:39
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The enemy who planted the weeds is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels.
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The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.
What Matthew 13:39 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus explains the parable of the weeds, identifying the devil as the one who sows harmful influences among the good. The 'harvest' symbolizes the final judgment at the end of time, where good and evil will be separated. Angels are depicted as the harvesters, tasked with gathering the righteous and removing the wicked. This imagery emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare and the ultimate accountability of every person. The devil's role as the enemy highlights the constant struggle between good and evil in the world. Understanding this helps believers recognize the importance of remaining vigilant and faithful, as the end of the age will bring a definitive resolution to the conflict between light and darkness.
How to apply Matthew 13:39 to your life
This verse encourages believers to stay alert to the influences around them, recognizing that not all that appears good is beneficial. It reminds us to seek God's guidance and to be diligent in our faith, knowing that our choices have eternal consequences.
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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 13:39 mean by 'the enemy who planted the weeds'?
In Matthew 13:39, 'the enemy who planted the weeds' refers to the devil, who introduces harmful influences and temptations into the world. This imagery illustrates the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil, where the devil seeks to undermine God's work by sowing discord and confusion among believers.
What is the significance of the 'harvest' in this verse?
The 'harvest' in Matthew 13:39 symbolizes the final judgment at the end of the age. It represents the time when God will separate the righteous from the wicked, determining each person's eternal fate. This highlights the importance of living a faithful life, as our actions will ultimately be evaluated during this divine reckoning.
Who are the 'harvesters' mentioned in Matthew 13:39?
The 'harvesters' in Matthew 13:39 are identified as angels. They are tasked with gathering the righteous and separating them from the wicked at the end of the age. This role emphasizes the active involvement of heavenly beings in God's plan for judgment and the ultimate restoration of order.
How does this verse relate to spiritual warfare?
Matthew 13:39 illustrates the reality of spiritual warfare by depicting the devil as the enemy who sows weeds among the good. This highlights the constant struggle between good and evil in the world, reminding believers to remain vigilant against negative influences and to actively choose faith and righteousness in their lives.
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