Matthew 13:41

KJV

The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;

KJV (with Strong's)

The Son {G5207} of man {G444} shall send forth {G649} his {G846} angels {G32}, and {G2532} they shall gather {G4816} out of {G1537} his {G846} kingdom {G932} all things {G3956} that offend {G4625}, and {G2532} them which do {G4160} iniquity {G458};

Complete Jewish Bible

The Son of Man will send forth his angels, and they will collect out of his Kingdom all the things that cause people to sin and all the people who are far from Torah;

Berean Standard Bible

The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will weed out of His kingdom every cause of sin and all who practice lawlessness.

American Standard Version

The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that cause stumbling, and them that do iniquity,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 13:41 is a profound declaration by Jesus, the Son of Man, concerning the ultimate divine judgment at the close of the age. It reveals His sovereign authority to dispatch His angels to meticulously purge His kingdom, removing all sources of spiritual stumbling and those who actively practice lawlessness, thereby ensuring the purity and righteousness of His eternal reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 13 is often referred to as the "Parable Chapter," where Jesus teaches in parables to both the crowds and His disciples. The specific verse, Matthew 13:41, is part of Jesus' private explanation of the [Parable of the Weeds (or Tares)](/matthew/13-24-30 "Matthew 13:24-30 - The Parable of the Weeds") to His disciples, found in [Matthew 13:36-43](/matthew/13-36-43 "Matthew 13:36-43 - Jesus Explains the Parable of the Weeds"). This explanation is crucial, as it decodes the allegorical elements of the parable, identifying the sower as the Son of Man, the field as the world, the good seed as the sons of the kingdom, the weeds as the sons of the evil one, and the harvest as the end of the age. Verse 41 specifically details the process and agents of the final separation and judgment, following the initial growth period where good and evil coexist. It sets the stage for the destiny of the wicked (vv. 41-42) and the righteous (v. 43).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery in the Parable of the Weeds, and thus in its explanation, is deeply rooted in the agricultural practices of ancient Israel. Farmers were familiar with the problem of weeds (specifically *zizania*, often identified as darnel, which closely resembles wheat in its early stages) growing alongside valuable crops, making early separation impossible without damaging the wheat. The "harvest" was a well-understood time of final reckoning and separation. The concept of a "kingdom" (Greek: *basileia*) would have resonated with Jewish expectations of a Messianic kingdom, yet Jesus redefines it as a spiritual reality that is both present and future, encompassing His dominion over all creation. The role of "angels" as divine messengers and agents of judgment is consistent with Old Testament prophetic literature and intertestamental Jewish thought, where angels often execute God's decrees, particularly in eschatological scenarios.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 13:41 contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes within Matthew's Gospel and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment and Separation**, emphasizing that there will be a definitive and unavoidable reckoning at the end of the age, where God's justice will be fully executed. Secondly, it highlights the **Sovereignty and Authority of the Son of Man**, identifying Jesus as the ultimate judge and ruler, a title with profound roots in [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Coming with the Clouds"), signifying both His humanity and His ultimate divine prerogative. Thirdly, the verse points to the **Purity and Holiness of God's Eschatological Kingdom**, revealing God's intent to purify His realm from all that causes sin and from those who practice lawlessness, leading to a state of perfect righteousness as further described in [Matthew 13:43](/matthew/13-43 "Matthew 13:43 - The Righteous Shine Like the Sun"). This theme anticipates the new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **angels (Greek, _ángelos_):** From G32, meaning a messenger, especially an "angel." In this context, these are divine emissaries dispatched by the Son of Man to execute His sovereign will, specifically to carry out the work of separation and judgment at the end of the age. Their role underscores the divine nature and cosmic scope of the impending judgment.
* **offend (Greek, _skándalon_):** From G4625, meaning a trap-stick, snare, or figuratively, a cause of displeasure or sin. It refers to anything that causes one to stumble, fall into sin, or act as a moral snare. This term signifies not merely an offense, but the very sources, instigators, or temptations that lead others into sin and spiritual ruin. The removal of these "things" implies a purification of the environment of the kingdom.
* **iniquity (Greek, _anomía_):** From G458, meaning illegality, violation of law, or wickedness. It describes a state of lawlessness, a willful disregard for God's divine law and moral standards. Those who "do iniquity" are not merely those who commit isolated acts of sin, but those whose lives are characterized by a pervasive and active rebellion against God's righteous rule, marked by unrighteousness and moral corruption.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The Son of man shall send forth his angels":** This clause establishes Jesus' supreme authority and identifies Him as the active agent of judgment. "The Son of man" is Jesus' preferred self-designation, highlighting His unique messianic role, both fully human and divinely empowered, particularly in the context of eschatological judgment. His sending forth "his angels" signifies His sovereign command over celestial beings, who serve as His agents in executing His divine will.
* **"and they shall gather out of his kingdom":** This describes the specific action of the angels and the sphere of their operation. The gathering (Greek: *syllégō*, G4816) implies a collection or separation. "His kingdom" (Greek: *basileía*, G932) here refers to the broad realm of Jesus' dominion, encompassing the world where the sons of the kingdom and the sons of the evil one have coexisted. The gathering "out of" (Greek: *ek*, G1537) emphasizes the act of removal and purification from within this sphere.
* **"all things that offend":** This refers to the first category of removal. "Things that offend" (Greek: *skándalon*, G4625) are not merely individuals, but anything that causes spiritual stumbling, leads to sin, or acts as a snare. This could include corrupting influences, false teachings, or systemic evils that hinder righteousness within the kingdom's sphere of influence.
* **"and them which do iniquity":** This refers to the second category of removal, focusing on individuals. "Them which do iniquity" (Greek: *poiéō anomía*, G4160 G458) describes those whose lives are characterized by active lawlessness and unrighteousness, a deliberate and habitual disregard for God's moral standards. These are the "sons of the evil one" from the parable, who are definitively separated from the righteous.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 13:41 is rich with **Symbolism** and **Eschatological Language**. The "Son of man" is a symbolic title for Jesus, evoking both His humanity and His divine authority as the appointed judge, particularly as seen in Daniel's vision. The "angels" symbolize divine agents of judgment, executing God's sovereign decrees. "His kingdom" symbolizes the realm of Christ's present and future dominion, which will ultimately be purged of all impurity. "Things that offend" and "them which do iniquity" symbolize the spiritual corruption and active rebellion against God's will that will be eradicated. The entire verse functions as **Allegory**, interpreting the symbolic elements of the Parable of the Weeds. Its language is distinctly **Eschatological**, focusing on the "end of the age" and the final, decisive separation and judgment, pointing towards the consummation of God's plan for His kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 13:41 powerfully articulates the certainty of divine judgment and the ultimate purification of God's kingdom. It underscores the biblical truth that God is holy and cannot tolerate sin indefinitely within His perfect reign. This verse reveals the Son of Man's absolute authority not only to establish His kingdom but also to cleanse it, demonstrating His role as both Savior and Judge. The separation described is not arbitrary but is based on the inherent nature of "offenses" and "iniquity," highlighting God's commitment to justice and righteousness. This future reality serves as a powerful call to repentance and a life of holiness for those within the kingdom, while offering profound assurance to the righteous that their suffering at the hands of the wicked will not be the final word.

* [Revelation 21:27](/revelation/21-27 "Revelation 21:27 - Nothing Impure Will Enter the New Jerusalem"): "And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life."
* [2 Thessalonians 1:7-9](/2_thessalonians/1-7-9 "2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 - The Vengeance of the Lord"): "And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, with flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power."
* [Malachi 3:2-3](/malachi/3-2-3 "Malachi 3:2-3 - The Coming Messenger and Purifier"): "But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap: And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 13:41 serves as a profound and sobering reminder of the ultimate accountability that awaits all humanity. For those who profess faith in Christ, it calls for a diligent self-examination and a fervent pursuit of holiness. Knowing that the Son of Man will meticulously purge His kingdom of "all things that offend" and "them which do iniquity" should motivate believers to actively root out sin in their own lives, to resist temptations that cause spiritual stumbling, and to live in obedience to God's law. It fosters a sense of urgency to live righteously, not out of fear, but out of love and reverence for the holy God who desires a pure people. Furthermore, this verse offers immense comfort and hope to the righteous who often suffer in a world where evil seems to flourish unchecked. It assures them that divine justice will prevail, and God's kingdom will ultimately be a realm of perfect righteousness, free from all corruption and wickedness. This truth should strengthen their resolve to persevere in faith, knowing that their labor in the Lord is not in vain, and their ultimate reward is secure in a purified kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the certainty of future judgment, as described in Matthew 13:41, shape your daily decisions and priorities?**
* **What "things that offend" or personal "iniquities" might the Son of Man need to "gather out" of your own life, and what steps can you take to address them now?**
* **In what ways does this verse offer comfort and hope to you amidst the presence of evil and injustice in the world today?**
* **How does understanding the purity of God's future kingdom impact your understanding of the Church's mission and your role within it?**

### FAQ
**Who are "the Son of man" and "his angels" in this verse?**

Answer: "The Son of man" is Jesus Christ Himself, a self-designation He frequently used, emphasizing His unique role as both fully human and divinely appointed, particularly as the ultimate judge and sovereign ruler, a title rooted in [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man's Authority"). "His angels" refer to celestial beings who serve as divine messengers and executors of God's will. In this context, they are Christ's agents, dispatched by Him to carry out the work of separation and judgment at the end of the age, demonstrating His supreme authority over all creation and heavenly hosts.

**What does it mean for "all things that offend" to be gathered out of His kingdom?**

Answer: "Things that offend" (Greek: *skandalon*) refers to anything that causes spiritual stumbling, leads to sin, or acts as a snare. This can include corrupting influences, false teachings, ungodly systems, or even individual actions that cause others to fall away from faith or righteousness. The phrase signifies the removal of all sources of spiritual harm and moral corruption from the kingdom. This act of purification ensures that the kingdom, in its consummated form, will be entirely holy and free from anything that hinders true worship and righteous living, as promised in [Revelation 21:27](/revelation/21-27 "Revelation 21:27 - Nothing Impure Enters the New Jerusalem").

**When will this gathering and purification take place?**

Answer: Jesus explicitly states in the explanation of the parable that the "harvest is the end of the age" ([Matthew 13:39](/matthew/13-39 "Matthew 13:39 - The Harvest is the End of the Age")). Therefore, the gathering out of "all things that offend, and them which do iniquity" will occur at the conclusion of the present age, coinciding with the second coming of Christ. This event marks the final separation of the righteous from the wicked, leading to the establishment of God's perfectly pure and eternal kingdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 13:41 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ, the Son of Man. He is not merely a messenger of judgment, but the very one who executes it, demonstrating His sovereign authority over all creation and the destiny of humanity. His first coming inaugurated the kingdom of God, planting the good seed in the world, and His atoning sacrifice on the cross provided the means for humanity's redemption from sin and iniquity, making purification possible. However, the full realization of the kingdom's purity, as described in this verse, awaits His glorious second coming. At that time, Jesus, who "came not to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved" ([John 3:17](/john/3-17 "John 3:17 - Jesus Came to Save the World")), will return as the righteous Judge, fulfilling the prophetic role of the Son of Man who has been given "authority to execute judgment, because he is the Son of Man" ([John 5:27](/john/5-27 "John 5:27 - Jesus' Authority to Judge")). He will send forth His angels to complete the separation, removing all that offends and all who practice lawlessness, thereby presenting a kingdom purified by His blood and governed by His perfect righteousness. This ultimate act of judgment and purification is a testament to His victory over sin and evil, ensuring that His eternal kingdom will be a realm of unblemished holiness, where the righteous will "shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father" ([Matthew 13:43](/matthew/13-43 "Matthew 13:43 - The Righteous Shine")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 24:31

And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

Revelation 21:27

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither [whatsoever] worketh abomination, or [maketh] a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.

2 Peter 2:1

¶ But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.

2 Peter 2:2

And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.

Matthew 18:7

¶ Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!

Romans 2:8

But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,

Romans 2:9

Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;