Matthew 13:41 (KJV)

What does Matthew 13:41 mean?

Matthew 13:41 describes how the "Son of man" (Jesus) will send out his angels to remove from his kingdom everything that causes sin and all those who practice evil. This verse pictures a future time of judgment when those who offend or do wrong will be separated from the rest.

In this part of Matthew, Jesus is explaining the meaning of the parable of the weeds to his disciples. He is speaking privately to them, describing what will happen at "the end of the world" (as the context shows). The verse uses clear language to show that not everyone will remain in God's kingdom—those who cause others to stumble or who do evil will be gathered out by angels, emphasizing a coming separation based on moral reality.

The Greek behind Matthew 13:41

• "Offend" (σκανδαλίζω, skandalizō): The Greek word here is often understood as "things that cause stumbling" or "things that lead others into sin." It suggests more than just personal wrongdoing—it includes influences or people who cause others to fall away.
• "Do iniquity" (ἀνομία, anomia): This word means "lawlessness" or "acting without regard for God's law." It highlights not just mistakes, but a pattern of living in opposition to what is right.
• "Gather" (συνάγω, synagō): The Greek carries the sense of collecting or bringing together, often for a purpose. Here, it is about a deliberate and thorough removal from the kingdom.

Why Matthew 13:41 matters

• Matthew 13:41 clarifies that Jesus himself, as the "Son of man," is the one with authority to judge and purify his kingdom, not just a distant figure.
• The verse emphasizes that both harmful influences and people who persist in wrongdoing are addressed, not just one or the other, showing the thoroughness of this future judgment.
• Understanding this verse helps make sense of the parable's message: the kingdom now may include both good and evil, but a time is coming when a clear separation will be made.