Chapters: Matthew 13
Matthew 13 presents a collection of parables describing the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus uses agricultural and everyday imagery—the sower, weeds, mustard seed, leaven, hidden treasure, pearl, and net—to illustrate the nature, growth, and mixed reception of the Kingdom. These parables reflect both revelation and concealment: they clarify meaning for attentive listeners while remaining obscure to others. Historically, parables functioned as a common rabbinic teaching method. In Matthew’s narrative, they also mark a shift toward teaching in symbolic form as opposition increases.