Key Verses: Matthew 13:24-30; 36-43
1. Horticultural Sabotage: Wheat vs. Bearded Darnel
a. The People listening to Jesus would have likely been able to picture this concept.
b. Wheat and darnel crops are identical to each other when they are immature. It isn’t until they reach maturity that one can visually distinguish which one is which.
2. What’s It Mean To “be good”?
a. In English,” good” can end up being a pretty subjective word.
i. Definition of good – (adjective) to be desired or having the qualities desired for a particular role
ii. Definition of good – (noun) that which is morally right; a benefit or advantage to someone or something
b. In Matthew 13:24 we have the Greek word transliterated as “Kalos”, which is appealing to the eye.
c. More examples of the word “good” in the Bible:
i. Genesis 1:31 – Hebrew word “tov” meaning merry, pleasant, desirable; in order, usable- efficient; friendly; kind; morally good
ii. Mark 10:17-18 – the Greek word “agathos;” good in character, perfect
3. The Important Take Away: Here on Earth, where the enemy has sown his weeds, believers and the spawn of the enemy are growing side-by-side. It is not enough to just be “good” in the subjective way we use the word. In our immaturity, just like the bearded darnel and the wheat, we are indistinguishable!
4. Worry About Yourself…
a. This isn’t an anti-accountability in relationship speech nor is this a call for selfishness/self-centered behavior. It’s especially not any condemnation! It’s a call to be constantly searching our hearts so that we become more like Christ daily…this is anti-complacency.
b. Just being able to quote scripture isn’t enough, if it’s not coming from a changed heart.
i. The Devil knows what God and the scripture says! (Scriptures: Matthew 4:6; Genesis 3:1)
c. The angels will do the separating of God’s people vs. the World’s people in the last days, so no need for us to worry about who’s who, our focus needs to be on examining our own hearts and responding to the Holy Spirit.
5. We Have To Grow Up.
a. God is calling us to maturity
i. 1 Corinthians 13:11
b. God is calling us to the bear fruit of our salvation.
i. Galatians 5:22-26
ii. Philippians 3:12
6. The Steps To Maturing
a. Read Your Bible – Let it change you to your core!
i. Hebrews 4:12
b. Increase Your Prayer Time
i. Romans 12:12
c. Praise and Worship – This Will Keep Your Focus Right
i. Psalm 96:2-3
d. “Say yes to God early and often” – Obedience is better than sacrifice!
i. 1 Samuel 15:22
7. A Note on What Lasts Forever: 1 Corinthians 13:13