Why is it sometimes hard to tell if someone is truly a Christian? If Jesus’ kingdom has come, why are there still wicked people in the world? What awaits believers at the end of the age? These questions, and more, are answered in the parable of the tares. The second parable in a set of seven kingdom parables in Matthew’s Gospel, the parable of the tares introduces the idea that the kingdom of God comes gradually, not all at once. Until Jesus returns as Judge and King, believers have been planted in the world as lights, inviting the lost to come and cling to Christ. Want to study the themes in this passage further? Here are a few reflection questions and passages to consider: 1. Read Ephesians 5:7-9, Philippians 2:1-16, 1 John 1:6-8, and 1 John 3:10. What does it look like to walk in the light as a child of God? 2. Consider Matthew 13:25-26 and Matthew 13:38-39 in light of 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 and 1 John 2:18-19. What is one of the strategies Satan uses to try to stop the growth of the church? 3. How would you describe “already-but-not-yet” to someone? (Check out the graphic on Instagram @godbesotted if you need help with this!) 4. What evil in the world or in your life makes you long for judgment? How does knowing that judgment is coming comfort you? Confess to the Lord any ways you may have sought to bring judgment on your own instead of waiting for God’s.  5. Spend time in silence before the Lord. Thank Him for His grace in bringing you into His family through His Son. Ask Him who He wants you to share the gospel with and write down their name. Pray for them and seek opportunities to connect with them.  Follow @godbesotted on Instagram for more encouraging content.