Collective meaning and specific, prophetic reference in the parables of Matthew 13

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This thesis investigates whether the parables of Matthew 13 can be understood, both individually and collectively, when they are connected to specific, prophetic referents. After a review of parable research, hermeneutical guidelines are identified in order to interpret the parables of Matthew 13 (chapter 2). Novel guidelines identified include the identification of specific, prophetic referents, the possibility of using details already explained in Matthew 13 in a contextually consistent manner, focusing on the collective meaning of this parabolic discourse and identifying what is new and old in each parable. After considering the structure of Matthew 13 (in chapter 3), these hermeneutical guidelines are applied, focusing on the contextual background (chapter 4) before analysing the parables individually (chapter 5) and collectively (chapter 6). The time period covered by the parables of Matthew 13 as a group is from the days of John the Baptist until the second coming of Jesus Christ. The kingdom of heaven is understood to exist from Pentecost onwards but will only be established when Christ returns, that is, the kingdom of heaven 'exists-but-is-not-yet-established. In Matthew's presentation, the parable of the sower covers the time period during which Jesus presents the word (or gospel) of the kingdom to Israel only. During that time, Jesus authenticates his Messianic claims to Israel and, by doing so, displays the authority and power bestowed on the Christ to them. But when Jesus is rejected, the treasure is hidden and he goes to the cross to provide the sign of Jonah. After purchasing the field, having received all authority in heaven and on earth, the Son of Man sends good seed not only to Israel, but to all the nations of the world. The sons of the kingdom first sent must include Peter and the other ten disciples who are commanded to go and make disciples. The surprising growth of the Church after the great commission includes, perhaps unexpectedly, also Gentiles, for the Son of Man commences his pearl ministry by baptising not only Jewish and Samaritan but also Gentile believers with the Holy Spirit. At the end of this age, the gospel of the kingdom will again be preached. This time, however, it will be preached not only to Israel, but as a witness to all the nations - and then the present age will end. After the tribulation and judgment of those days, the King returns to unveil the treasure in order to establish the Messianic kingdom on earth. It is submitted that, regardless of one's eschatological view (this thesis is presented from a dispensational, premillennial perspective), by focusing on specific, prophetic referents and by considering this series of parables in a collective and contextually consistent manner, the parables of Matthew 13 (and perhaps the Gospel of Matthew as a whole) can be understood differently. And it is about understanding all these things that Jesus questions his disciples.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University