Pentecost Season · Proper 11 · Year A
Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
The Parable of the Weeds
July 19, 2026
Overview & Insights
“Let both grow together until the harvest.” (Matthew 13:30)
The parables in this section of the Parables Discourse build upon the varied responses to the kingdom introduced in 13:1–23 by indicating the hidden nature of the kingdom in the present. What will be clear in the end is partially hidden in the present, so that it takes eyes of faith to see it. Thus, the kingdom is like weeds and wheat growing together in a field, a mustard seed, and yeast hidden in a lump of dough. Its impact and its true followers will be clear only at the final judgment. Yet the kingdom is also of far greater worth than a great treasure or an exquisite pearl. The theme of God’s final judgment continues to be prominent in the chapter (13:40–43, 49–50; cf. 3:7–12; 7:15–20), along with a motif of insiders and outsiders (13:36). The latter motif actually surrounds the discourse with bookending accounts of Jesus’ family and hometown (12:46–50; 13:54–58).
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Commentary
Commentary on Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 Working Preacher
The Lutheran lectionary commentary for this exact Year A passage.
Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 Sermon Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
A Reformed preaching commentary keyed to this Sunday.
Matthew 13 Commentary Enduring Word · David Guzik
Verse by verse evangelical exposition of the chapter.
Matthew 13 Commentary Precept Austin
A deep collection of quotes and cross references on the chapter.
Matthew 13:24 Study Desk StudyLight
Aggregates dozens of classic and modern commentaries on the verse.
Matthew 13:24 Commentaries BibleHub
Parallel classic commentaries gathered for the verse.
Bible Study: Proper 11 (A) Sermons That Work · Episcopal Church
An Episcopal Bible study on the weeds and wheat and the problem of evil.
Background & Word Study
The Church Fathers
Questions preachers ask
What is the parable of the weeds about?
An enemy sows weeds among the wheat; the master lets both grow until the harvest, when they are finally separated, a picture of patience and judgment in the kingdom.
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