Week 4 | Day 3 PARABLE OF THE WHEAT AND TARE Matthew 13:24-43

Jesus told a sobering story about a farmer who sowed good seed in his field, but while everyone slept, an enemy came and sowed tares (weeds that resemble wheat) among the crop. When both began to grow, the servants wanted to rip the weeds out immediately—but the farmer told them to wait, because uprooting too soon could damage the wheat. At harvest time, the difference will be unmistakable—the wheat will be gathered into the barn, and the tares will be bundled and burned. Jesus later explained the meaning the Son of Man sows the good seed, the field is the world, and the enemy is the devil—who works to plant counterfeits and confusion. For a season, wheat and weeds can look similar. But in the end, at Christ’s return, at that time, there will be a final separation. What is real will remain, while what is false will be exposed. Until then, the call is to remain faithful, discerning, and fruitful—trusting God as the perfect Judge.

APPLICATION

1. Expect Counterfeits—and don’t be Surprised by the Lies of Religion

Satan’s strategy isn’t always open opposition; often it’s imitation—something that looks close enough to deceive and distract.

2. Let the Fruit in Your Life be Your Diagnostic, not Some Pretend Appearance

The tare can resemble wheat early on, but over time fruit reveals reality. Ask: Is my life increasingly shaped by Christ—repentance, obedience, love, humility, holiness?

3. Resist the Urge to Play Ultimate Judge

The servants wanted to pull weeds immediately. Jesus reminds us: be discerning, yes—but leave final judgment to God. Our role is faithful witness, patient endurance, and clear truth in love.

4. Stay Rooted in the Truth so You can Spot Untruth Quickly and Accurately

The best way to recognize a counterfeit is to know the real thing. Keep returning to Scripture, the character of Christ, and the Spirit’s conviction—especially when religion becomes performance instead of surrender.

5. Live with the Harvest in View

History is headed somewhere. Christ will return, and everything will be revealed. That reality doesn’t create fear for the believer—it produces steadiness, urgency, and compassion for those being misled.

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, thank You that Your truth is in the world and Your kingdom is advancing, even when evil seems to grow alongside it. Search my heart and make sure my faith is genuine—not mere religion, not appearances, but real surrender to You. Grow true fruit in my life that reflects Your Word, Your will, and Your ways. Give me discernment to recognize the enemy’s lies and compassion to help others find the truth that saves. Keep me faithful until the day of harvest, trusting You as the righteous Judge and gracious Savior. In Your name, amen.