SCRIPTURE: Matthew 13:24-30, and 36-43.

In the Parable of the Weeds (Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43), Jesus teaches us how to respond to the devil's influence within and upon the church. In the parable, we learn that Satan actively places those who serve his evil purposes among and around those who make up Christ's church throughout the world. Perhaps to our surprise, Jesus commands us here to temper our desire to root out counterfeit Christians and evil influences from the church at all costs. We cannot see people’s spiritual state clearly now; accordingly, we must carry out the work of the church with discernment, patience, and confidence in Christ.