Lesson 9.The Cosmic Conflict
Origin, Nature, and Hope
Since the beginning of time, an invisible yet very real conflict has raged between good and evil, between God and Satan. This struggle is not simply a dispute between two opposing forces – it is about much more: truth, trust, justice, and worship. The origin of this conflict does not lie on Earth but in Heaven, when Lucifer, a glorious angel, rebelled against God’s sovereignty out of pride and selfishness.
But why did God allow this conflict to develop? Why does He tolerate evil? The answer does not lie in a battle for power – for God is almighty – but in God’s love and patience. True love cannot be forced; it requires trust and a free choice. That is why God grants time for all creatures to recognize the true nature of Satan and the destructive consequences of his rebellion.
This lesson takes us through decisive biblical scenes of the cosmic conflict – from the Fall in the Garden of Eden to Jesus’ temptation in the desert. We see how Satan operates with deception, lies, and accusations, while God responds with truth, justice, and selfless love. Most importantly, the question remains: whose side do we stand on? To whom do we give our trust and worship?
As we study Lesson 9, we will not only gain a better understanding of the background of the conflict but also discover practical ways to hold fast to God’s truth in our daily lives and resist Satan’s lies. One thing is certain: victory has already been won through Jesus – and we are invited to be part of that triumph.
9.1 An Enemy Has Done This
An Enemy Has Sown Evil – God’s Patience in the Cosmic Conflict
Read Matthew 13:24–27. How does this parable help us understand the evil in our world?
The parable of the weeds among the wheat helps us understand the reality of evil in our world from a spiritual perspective. Jesus describes how an enemy secretly sows weeds among the good seeds. This action symbolically explains the origin of evil: it is not God who creates or promotes evil, but an enemy – Satan – who actively works against God’s good creation.
The question posed by the servants in the parable, “Lord, did you not sow good seed? Where then did the weeds come from?” reflects the ancient question of humanity: if God is good, why is there so much suffering and evil? Jesus answers clearly: “An enemy has done this.” Evil is not a product of God’s creation, but the result of rebellion and sin introduced into the world by the enemy.
The parable also reveals God’s patience and wisdom. Instead of uprooting the weeds immediately – which might harm the wheat – God allows both to grow together until the harvest. This illustrates that while God could put a stop to evil, He grants time for ripening and repentance, while also respecting human free will.
For us, this means that even though evil is present, God is in control. Judgment will come at the proper time, and evil will ultimately be eradicated. Our task is to remain patient, trust in God’s plan, do good, and be confident that justice will prevail in the end.
Concluding Thought:
The parable teaches us not only why evil exists but also how we should live in a world intermingled with good and evil: with patience, hope, and steadfast trust in God’s just actions.
Read Matthew 13:28–30 against the backdrop of Christ’s explanation in verses 37–40. In what way does this also shed light on the nature of the cosmic conflict?
The parable of the weeds among the wheat unveils a deeper spiritual reality: the cosmic conflict between Christ and Satan. Jesus identifies Himself as the “Son of Man,” who sows the good seed, while the enemy, the devil, secretly sows the weeds. This makes it clear that evil does not originate from God’s creation itself, but is the result of deliberate destruction by the adversary. Satan works against God’s plan by sowing confusion and attempting to mix evil with good.
Particularly illuminating is the reaction of the servants: “Do you want us to go and gather them?” This question expresses a widespread human desire: Why does God allow evil to persist? Why doesn’t He immediately eliminate it? Jesus’ response, “No, lest while you gather the weeds you also uproot the wheat,” reveals God’s patience and care. A hasty intervention would not only destroy evil but also endanger the innocent. In this cosmic conflict, it is not only a matter of eradicating evil but also of preserving justice, mercy, and the possibility of repentance.
Waiting until harvest time symbolizes God’s final judgment at the end of time. Until then, He allows good and evil to coexist, giving everyone the opportunity for ripening and decision. This process demonstrates God’s justice and love: He does not wish to condemn anyone prematurely but to offer each person the chance for repentance (cf. 2 Peter 3:9).
Concluding Thought:
The parable casts a strong light on the cosmic conflict: God is neither indifferent nor powerless against evil. Instead, He acts wisely and patiently, to completely and justly eradicate evil at the proper time – without harming the good. Our task is to remain faithful during this period of waiting, to exercise patience, and to trust in God’s perfect plan.
What Dangers Arise from Attempting to Separate the Weeds from the Wheat Now?
What Dangers Arise from Trying to Separate the Weeds from the Wheat Now?
Attempting to separate the weeds (evil) from the wheat (the righteous) before the time set by God carries several dangers:
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False Judgments and Missteps:
People often cannot distinguish absolutely between good and evil. What appears outwardly as weeds might be a young or weak believer still growing and maturing. A hasty judgment can lead to wrongful conclusions and hurt souls that God is still shaping.
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Harming the Good:
Jesus warns that in uprooting the weeds, the wheat might also be harmed. A harsh approach against the seemingly evil may result in discouraging, condemning, or excluding believers. This contradicts God’s patience and mercy.
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Self-Righteousness and Pride:
Those who feel called to judge others risk becoming self-righteous. The attitude “We are the wheat, you are the weeds” fosters division, arrogance, and an unmerciful stance towards others.
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Loss of Patience and Love:
God’s character is marked by patience and love. Those who rush to “clean up” miss the opportunity that God gives people for repentance. His long-suffering is not to be seen as weakness but as an expression of His saving love.
Why Does This Not Mean Ignoring the Evil We Encounter?
Although Jesus advises against hastily uprooting the weeds, this does not mean that we should simply overlook or tolerate evil:
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Watchfulness and Spiritual Discernment:
Christians are called to recognize and avoid evil (Romans 12:9). Watchfulness does not mean condemning people, but rather avoiding false teachings, sinful actions, and temptations.
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Confrontation in Love:
Jesus taught us to lovingly correct brothers and sisters who err (Matthew 18:15). It is not about condemnation but about restoration and helping them turn back.
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Protecting the Community:
In cases where evil harms others, action is necessary. Paul encouraged churches to maintain order within the community (1 Corinthians 5). In doing so, the motivation must always be love, not revenge or pride.
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Being a Model and Letting Your Light Shine:
Instead of focusing on eradicating evil, God calls us to live as the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:14–16). By doing good, we combat evil in a manner that reflects the nature of Jesus.
Concluding Thought:
The parable teaches us to be patient and merciful, leaving final judgment to God. At the same time, it calls us not to tolerate or ignore evil, but to confront it with truth, love, and wisdom. Our focus should not be on “uprooting” but on strengthening our own faith, helping others to turn back, and mirroring God’s patience.
The parable of the weeds among the wheat holds profound significance for our daily lives and our faith. It challenges us to adopt a balanced approach in dealing with both evil and fellow human beings, guided by God’s wisdom.
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Developing Patience in Difficult Situations:
In everyday life, we encounter injustice, conflicts, and evil deeds. We may be tempted to intervene quickly, seek revenge, or pass harsh judgments. However, the parable reminds us to be patient and to trust in God’s timing. Instead of letting anger overwhelm us, we are called to remain calm in difficult situations and leave control in God’s hands.
Practical Example: When a colleague acts unfairly, we might feel compelled to confront them immediately or speak ill of them. Yet sometimes it is better to wait, pray for them, and trust that God will bring the truth to light.
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Resisting the Urge to Judge Others Prematurely:
We tend to judge people based on their outward behavior or first impressions. The parable warns against quickly labeling someone as “weeds.” God sees the heart, and what we consider hopeless can change through God’s work.
Practical Example: We may know someone caught in a cycle of poor decisions. Instead of writing them off, we should be there for them, show love, and refrain from judgment – hopeful that God’s grace will work in their life.
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Taking Responsibility for Our Own Spiritual Growth:
While God takes care of final judgment, it is up to us to grow as “wheat” and bear fruit. We should not fixate on the evil around us but focus on our relationship with God.
Practical Example: Concentrate on prayer, Bible reading, and good deeds instead of constantly getting upset about the “weeds” in society. Your positive example can inspire others.
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Actively Doing Good Without Ignoring Evil:
The parable does not teach passivity. We are not to trivialize evil but to handle it wisely. Whether in personal conflicts or societal issues, we must actively stand up for what is right – with love rather than hatred.
Practical Example: Stand against injustice (such as bullying or discrimination), but do so respectfully and without bitterness. Your behavior can be a powerful testimony of your faith.
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Appreciating God’s Patience in Our Own Lives:
Often we expect God to be patient with others while forgetting how much we ourselves benefit from His long-suffering. The parable invites us to humbly recognize that we all need God’s grace.
Practical Example: Reflect on times when you made mistakes. God’s patience allowed you to grow. This experience should encourage you to be forgiving and patient with others.
