The third parable we are doing in the series is the Net found in Mt 13. There is a series introduction here, with an explanation and a list of all the parables we are doing over the summer. Again if you are going to be at our church on Sunday, do take some time to reflect on the parable. And of course, anyone else is more than welcome to participate and leave a comment!
The Parable of the Net - Mt 13:47-50
Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away. This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Questions for reflection:
As you reflect on the parable and attempt to honestly evaluate yourself, you may like to consider the following question:
Good and bad fish are swimming together, until the separation at the end. What does that mean for you? Can we tell which are which?
Tags: Parables
Bad fish can give you an upset tummy.
No seriously, I can’t tell if a fish is good or bad just by looking at it. When I’ve eaten a fish and digested it all, it’s only then I’ll know if it was good or bad. I see people the same way. Just because they appear good/bad on the outside, I don’t know what they are really like deep within.
In the end, I hope I’ll be seperated into the good pile.
Is it our job to separate the wheat / chaff? Is it our job to pass judgement about “false converts” and “true converts.” I’m just raising the question, not answering it.
Some parables indicate that we are to let the weeds be, this one shows that at the full harvest, the angels will separate.
Pastor Chris
EvangelismCoach.org
good comments tayna and chris - thanks!
It does seem that both of you are making the point that it isn’t our job to discern those who are good or bad / in and out etc. … and Jesus seems to contantly be holding off as long as possible before bringing any saparation to allow as many as possible to choose to be in…
I wonder what these parables teach us about inclusivity? And have we really practiced that in most churches?