Matthew 13:43

KJV

Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G5119} shall the righteous {G1342} shine forth {G1584} as {G5613} the sun {G2246} in {G1722} the kingdom {G932} of their {G846} Father {G3962}. Who {G3588} hath {G2192} ears {G3775} to hear {G191}, let him hear {G191}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then the righteous will shine forth like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let him hear!

Berean Standard Bible

Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.

American Standard Version

Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He that hath ears, let him hear.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 13:43 serves as the glorious conclusion to Jesus' explanation of the Parable of the Tares, revealing the ultimate destiny of the righteous. It paints a vivid picture of their future vindication and glorification, where they will radiate with the brilliance of the sun within the eternal reign of God their Father. This profound declaration is coupled with a solemn call for spiritual discernment, urging all who hear to grasp the weighty implications of divine judgment and the promised inheritance of God's children.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 13:43 is the climactic verse of Jesus' private explanation of the Parable of the Tares (or Weeds), which He delivers to His disciples after the crowds have dispersed. The parable itself, found in [Matthew 13:24-30](/matthew/13-24-30 "Matthew 13:24-30 - The Parable of the Tares"), describes a farmer sowing good seed, only for an enemy to sow weeds among the wheat. Both are allowed to grow together until the harvest, symbolizing the end of the age. Jesus' interpretation, beginning in [Matthew 13:36](/matthew/13-36 "Matthew 13:36 - Jesus Explains the Parable of the Tares"), systematically decodes each element: the sower is the Son of Man, the field is the world, the good seed are the children of the kingdom, the weeds are the children of the evil one, the enemy is the devil, the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. Verse 43, therefore, is the triumphant declaration of the righteous's fate, immediately following the description of the wicked's fiery destruction.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery in this verse draws heavily from the agrarian society of first-century Palestine. The concept of "wheat and tares" (likely darnel, a poisonous weed that closely resembles wheat in its early stages) growing together was a familiar reality for farmers. The "harvest" was a well-understood time of separation and judgment, where the valuable crop was gathered and the worthless weeds were burned. The "kingdom of their Father" resonates with Jewish messianic expectations of a future, divinely established reign, though Jesus redefines its nature and timing. The idea of the righteous "shining" also has roots in Old Testament prophetic literature, particularly [Daniel 12:3](/daniel/12-3 "Daniel 12:3 - The Wise Shall Shine"), which speaks of the wise shining like the brightness of the firmament.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several core themes prevalent throughout [Matthew's Gospel](/matthew/1 "The Gospel According to Matthew") and Jesus' teachings on the Kingdom of Heaven. Firstly, it emphasizes the **Future Glory and Vindication of the Righteous**, assuring believers of their ultimate honor and radiant display in God's presence, contrasting sharply with the fate of the wicked. Secondly, it underscores the certainty of **Divine Judgment and Separation**, highlighting that the current coexistence of good and evil is temporary and will culminate in a definitive, eternal distinction. Thirdly, the phrase "in the kingdom of their Father" points to the **Sovereignty and Familial Nature of God's Kingdom**, emphasizing the intimate relationship believers have with God as their Father and their secure, eternal inheritance within His perfect reign. Finally, the concluding call, "Who hath ears to hear, let him hear," a recurring motif in Jesus' parables (e.g., [Matthew 13:9](/matthew/13-9 "Matthew 13:9 - Call to Hear") and [Luke 8:8](/luke/8-8 "Luke 8:8 - Call to Hear")), stresses the importance of **Spiritual Discernment** and a deep, responsive understanding of the profound truths of God's kingdom and judgment.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Righteous (Greek, _díkaios'_):** From _díkē_, this term signifies someone who is equitable in character and act, innocent, and holy. In the context of Matthew 13:43, it refers to those who have been justified by God through faith and whose lives reflect that transformed status, embodying moral rectitude and adherence to God's will. Their righteousness is not merely external but an internal state, made possible by their relationship with God.
* **Shine forth (Greek, _eklámpō'_):** Derived from _ek_ (out of) and _lámpō_ (to shine), this verb means "to shine out, to beam forth brightly, to be resplendent." It conveys an outward, visible manifestation of inner glory and purity. This is not a dim glow but a brilliant, undeniable radiance, signifying a complete revelation and vindication of the righteous in God's presence.
* **Sun (Greek, _hḗlios'_):** This word refers to the celestial body that provides light and warmth, and by implication, light itself. The comparison of the righteous to the "sun" emphasizes the ultimate degree of their brilliance, visibility, and honor. The sun is the most prominent and radiant object in the sky, symbolizing ultimate glory, purity, and the complete absence of shadow or imperfection.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun":** This clause introduces the glorious destiny of those identified as "the righteous" in Jesus' parable. "Then" (G5119, _tóte_) points to the specific time of the "harvest," the end of the age, when the final separation and judgment occur. The imagery of "shining forth as the sun" conveys unparalleled brilliance, purity, and public vindication. It suggests a transformation or revelation of their true, glorified nature, making them visibly radiant. This is a promise of ultimate honor and recognition for those who have lived righteously in a world often hostile to their faith.
* **"in the kingdom of their Father.":** This phrase specifies the location and context of this glorious manifestation. The "kingdom of their Father" signifies the eternal, sovereign reign of God, where believers will dwell in intimate, familial relationship with Him. It underscores the divine origin and nature of this future state, emphasizing that their glory is not self-derived but is a gift and inheritance within God's perfect, eternal domain. It speaks to security, belonging, and an everlasting dwelling in God's presence.
* **"Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.":** This concluding, emphatic statement is a recurring call from Jesus throughout the Gospels, particularly when delivering profound or challenging truths. It is an invitation and an imperative for spiritual discernment. It urges listeners to move beyond mere auditory reception to a deep, internal comprehension and responsive action. It implies that the truths just spoken are not for casual hearing but require spiritual insight and a willingness to embrace their implications for one's life and eternal destiny.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 13:43 is rich in literary devices that amplify its profound message. The most prominent is **Simile**, evident in the phrase "shine forth as the sun." This comparison vividly conveys the intensity, purity, and unmistakable nature of the righteous's future glory, drawing on the sun's universally recognized brilliance. This imagery is not merely descriptive but **Symbolic**, with the "sun" representing ultimate light, truth, and divine approval, contrasting sharply with the darkness associated with the wicked. The entire verse functions as a powerful **Prolepsis**, a prophetic glimpse into the future, revealing the ultimate outcome of God's plan and judgment before it occurs. Finally, the concluding phrase, "Who hath ears to hear, let him hear," serves as a **Rhetorical Device** known as a call to discernment, an urgent appeal for listeners to pay close attention and grasp the spiritual significance of Jesus' teaching, implying that not all will truly understand or respond.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 13:43 stands as a cornerstone of biblical eschatology, offering a profound vision of the believer's ultimate destiny and the certainty of divine judgment. It underscores the truth that while good and evil may coexist in the present age, a definitive and glorious separation awaits. The "shining forth" of the righteous is a testament to God's justice, His power to purify and glorify His people, and the full realization of their adoption as children into His eternal kingdom. This future glory is not merely an external display but the culmination of God's redemptive work, where the inner righteousness bestowed by Christ is outwardly manifested without blemish or shadow. It provides immense hope and motivation for perseverance, reminding believers that their present struggles are temporary and their future vindication is assured in the presence of their loving Father.

* [Daniel 12:3](/daniel/12-3 "Daniel 12:3 - The Wise Shall Shine"): "And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever."
* [1 Corinthians 15:43](/1_corinthians/15-43 "1 Corinthians 15:43 - Resurrection Glory"): "It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power:"
* [Revelation 21:23](/revelation/21-23 "Revelation 21:23 - No Need for Sun in New Jerusalem"): "And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 13:43 offers a breathtaking vision that should profoundly shape the believer's perspective and priorities. In a world where righteousness often seems hidden, overlooked, or even persecuted, this verse provides an unwavering assurance of ultimate vindication and glory. It reminds us that our true identity and worth are not defined by earthly accolades or fleeting recognition, but by our standing as children of God, destined for a radiant future in His eternal kingdom. This hope should fuel our perseverance through trials, motivate us to live lives of increasing righteousness, and empower us to stand firm against the pressures of a fallen world. For those who have yet to embrace the call of the Kingdom, this verse serves as a solemn warning of the coming judgment and a tender invitation to heed the words of Christ, ensuring they are counted among the righteous who will shine. It challenges us to examine our lives: are we living in light of this glorious future, actively cultivating the "good seed" of the Kingdom within us, and truly listening with "ears to hear" the profound truths of God's Word?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise that the righteous will "shine forth as the sun" impact your understanding of your ultimate destiny and purpose?**
* **In what ways does the concept of a future, definitive separation of the righteous and the wicked influence your daily choices and priorities?**
* **What does it mean to truly have "ears to hear" Jesus' words, and how can you cultivate deeper spiritual discernment in your life?**
* **How does the assurance of dwelling "in the kingdom of their Father" provide comfort and hope amidst present difficulties or injustices?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean for the righteous to "shine forth as the sun"?**

Answer: This vivid imagery signifies the ultimate glorification, vindication, and purity of believers at the end of the age. Just as the sun is the most brilliant and unmistakable source of light, so too will the righteous be revealed in their perfected, radiant state, free from all sin and imperfection. It speaks to a visible manifestation of their inner holiness and the honor bestowed upon them by God, contrasting sharply with the darkness and destruction awaiting the wicked as described earlier in Jesus' explanation of the parable (e.g., [Matthew 13:42](/matthew/13-42 "Matthew 13:42 - The Furnace of Fire")). It suggests a complete unveiling of their true identity as children of God, reflecting His own glory.

**What is the "kingdom of their Father" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The "kingdom of their Father" refers to the eternal, heavenly reign of God, where His redeemed people will dwell in perfect communion with Him. It is the ultimate realization of God's sovereign rule, a place of righteousness, peace, and joy, established by God and presided over by Him. This phrase emphasizes the intimate, familial relationship believers have with God, highlighting their secure inheritance and belonging within His eternal household. It signifies the culmination of God's redemptive plan, where His children will fully experience His presence and glory, as described throughout the New Testament, for example, in [Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 13:43 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. He is the very **Sun of Righteousness** (as prophesied in [Malachi 4:2](/malachi/4-2 "Malachi 4:2 - Sun of Righteousness")), whose radiant glory was glimpsed at His [Transfiguration](/matthew/17-2 "Matthew 17:2 - The Transfiguration") and fully revealed in His resurrection and ascension. It is through union with Him that believers are made "righteous" in God's sight, for He became sin for us "that we might become the righteousness of God in Him" ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Made Righteous in Christ")). The promise that the righteous will "shine forth as the sun" is a promise that they will be conformed to the image of Christ's glorious body ([Philippians 3:21](/philippians/3-21 "Philippians 3:21 - Transformation to Christ's Glorious Body")), reflecting His light and glory. Furthermore, the "kingdom of their Father" is the very kingdom that Jesus inaugurated through His life, death, and resurrection, and over which He now reigns as King of Kings and Lord of Lords ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings")). He is the one who gathers His own at the "harvest" and presents them faultless before the Father's throne with great joy ([Jude 1:24](/jude/1-24 "Jude 1:24 - Presented Blameless")). Thus, the glory, the righteousness, and the kingdom promised in Matthew 13:43 are all mediated by and centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ, the one who truly has "ears to hear" and perfectly fulfills the will of the Father.

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

Daniel 12:3

And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.

1 Corinthians 15:41

[There is] one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for [one] star differeth from [another] star in glory.

1 Corinthians 15:54

So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

Matthew 11:15

He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Luke 12:32

Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

Matthew 25:34

Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

Revelation 21:22

And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.