Matthew 13:28 – “‘An enemy did this,’ he replied. The servants asked him, ‘Do you want us to go and pull them up?’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, the landowner identifies the source of the weeds: an enemy. The servants, eager to help, ask if they should go and remove the weeds immediately. The landowner’s response (in the following verses) reveals his wisdom and patience, but here the focus is on identifying the problem and the servants’ desire to act.
This exchange highlights a key spiritual truth: evil is not a result of God’s actions but the work of an enemy—Satan. The servants’ question reflects a natural human desire to address evil quickly, but the parable suggests that dealing with it requires wisdom, patience, and trust in God’s ultimate plan.
Historical Context
In the agricultural practices of Jesus’ time, it was not uncommon for enemies to sabotage a farmer’s field by sowing weeds among the crops. These weeds, often resembling wheat in their early stages, were difficult to distinguish until both plants matured. Uprooting the weeds too early could risk damaging the wheat as well.
Jesus uses this familiar scenario to illustrate a spiritual reality. Just as the enemy in the parable disrupts the field, Satan seeks to undermine God’s kingdom by introducing evil and confusion into the world. The servants’ offer to remove the weeds reflects their concern for the crop but also sets up the landowner’s wise response.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that evil and suffering are the result of the enemy’s work, not God’s design. God’s creation was declared “very good” (Genesis 1:31), but sin entered the world through Satan’s deception and humanity’s disobedience. The presence of evil does not diminish God’s goodness or sovereignty but points to the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil.
It also reminds us that human efforts to address evil can sometimes cause more harm than good if they are not guided by God’s wisdom. The servants’ eagerness to remove the weeds reflects good intentions, but the parable suggests that timing and discernment are crucial in dealing with evil.
Literary Analysis
The dialogue between the landowner and the servants adds depth to the parable. The enemy’s action is revealed, creating tension and raising the question of how to respond. The servants’ question introduces the theme of human responsibility versus divine wisdom, setting the stage for the landowner’s careful plan.
The phrase “An enemy did this” shifts the focus from the servants’ confusion to the landowner’s clear understanding of the situation, emphasizing his authority and insight.
Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 3:1-6 – The serpent’s deception in the Garden of Eden, introducing sin and evil into God’s creation.
- John 10:10 – Jesus describes the enemy as a thief who comes to steal, kill, and destroy, contrasting with His mission to bring abundant life.
- 1 Peter 5:8 – A warning to stay alert because the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking to devour.
- Ephesians 6:12 – A reminder that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder to recognize the reality of spiritual opposition. Evil is not random or accidental but the deliberate work of an enemy who seeks to disrupt God’s purposes. It encourages believers to remain vigilant and to rely on God’s wisdom rather than rushing to address problems in their own strength.
This verse also challenges us to trust God’s plan for dealing with evil. While it is natural to want to eliminate wrongs immediately, the parable reminds us that God’s timing and methods are perfect. Our role is to remain faithful, trusting that He will ultimately bring justice and restoration.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in His awareness and care for the wheat, even amidst the presence of weeds. The landowner’s response reflects God’s patience and His desire to protect His people while addressing evil in His perfect time.
This verse also shows God’s commitment to justice. He recognizes the work of the enemy and has a plan to deal with it, assuring His followers that evil will not have the final word.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus, as the sower of the good seed, is fully aware of the enemy’s efforts to disrupt His work. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He has already secured victory over sin and Satan, ensuring that the enemy’s plans will ultimately fail.
This verse also points to Jesus’ role as the ultimate judge. While the weeds remain for now, He will one day separate the wheat from the weeds, bringing justice and establishing His eternal kingdom (Matthew 13:40-43).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does recognizing the enemy’s role in the presence of evil change your perspective on challenges in the world?
- What can you learn from the landowner’s wisdom and patience in dealing with the weeds?
- How does this verse encourage you to trust God’s timing and plan for addressing evil?
- In what ways can you remain faithful and focused on God’s work, even when confronted by the enemy’s attempts to disrupt it?
- How can this verse inspire you to rely on God’s wisdom rather than reacting impulsively to challenges or opposition?
This verse reminds us of the reality of spiritual opposition and the importance of trusting in God’s wisdom and plan. It challenges us to remain faithful and patient, knowing that God is in control and will bring justice in His perfect time.