Matthew 13:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 13:27
27 So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?
Chapter Context
Matthew 13 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of covenant, wisdom, faith. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-58: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 13:27
27 So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?
Analysis
So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? (Κύριε, οὐχὶ καλὸν σπέρμα ἔσπειρας)—the servants' question reveals perplexity: if the master sowed pure seed, why tares? They understand the sowing was good; the problem arose afterward. From whence then hath it tares? (πόθεν οὖν ἔχει ζιζάνια;)—pothen asks 'from what source?' They seek explanation for evil's presence.
This represents the problem of evil in God's good creation. God plants His word purely; false teaching doesn't originate with Him. The servants' question is humanity's question: if God is sovereign and good, why does evil exist alongside good? The parable's answer: an enemy, working while men sleep, introduces corruption. Satan counterfeits God's work; false religion mimics true religion; tares imitate wheat. The question anticipates verse 28's explanation.
Historical Context
Household servants (δοῦλοι) were responsible for managing the master's property, making crop contamination their concern. The question format reflects ancient Near Eastern legal proceedings where servants reported problems requiring master's judgment. In Jesus's ministry context, this addresses Jewish perplexity: if Messiah has come, why do false teachers and unbelievers remain among God's people?
Reflection
- How does this parable address the problem of evil—why does God allow false teaching and counterfeit believers in His church?
- What does the servants' question reveal about expectations that God's field should contain only wheat?
- Where do you see the 'good seed' question arising today—blame toward God for evil's presence rather than recognizing the enemy's work?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Romans 16:17, 1 Corinthians 16:10, 2 Corinthians 6:1, 6:4