What Did Jesus Say About the End Times?
In Matthew 13:24-43, Jesus shares several parables that give us deep insight into the end times. These stories are simple on the surface, but they carry powerful spiritual truth. If you’ve ever wondered what Jesus said about heaven, hell, and the fate of good and evil, this passage is for you.
This Matthew Bible lesson gives us a vivid look at what will happen at the end of the age—and how God plans to separate those who follow Him from those who reject Him.
The Parable of the Mustard Seed
Jesus began with a small yet mighty image:
“The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field; and this is smaller than all other seeds, but when it is full grown, it is larger than the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches.” – Matthew 13:31-32 NASB
Even though the mustard seed is tiny, it grows into something powerful and life-giving. In the same way, the message of Christ started small but has spread across the globe. That’s the power of God’s kingdom!
The Leaven – Quiet but Transformative
Jesus continued:
“The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three pecks of flour until it was all leavened.” – Matthew 13:33 NASB
Leaven works quietly, but over time, it changes everything. That’s what the gospel does in our hearts—and in the world. The growth of Christianity, beginning with just a few disciples, is proof of that. Today, millions follow Christ.
Why Did Jesus Speak in Parables?
Jesus didn’t just teach in straightforward language. He used parables to unlock deeper truths:
“I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things hidden since the foundation of the world.” – Matthew 13:35 NASB
His goal? To reveal spiritual mysteries to those who are truly listening.
End Times Bible Verse – The Parable of the Weeds
The Weeds Among the Wheat
One of the clearest end times Bible verses is when Jesus explains the parable of the tares (weeds):
“The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man, and the field is the world… the tares are the sons of the evil one… and the harvest is the end of the age.” – Matthew 13:37-39 NASB
Jesus describes a time when believers and unbelievers grow side by side—just like wheat and weeds in a field. But when the time of harvest comes, there will be a great separation.
The Furnace of Fire
This part of the passage is intense and sobering:
“The Son of Man will send forth His angels… and will throw them into the furnace of fire; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” – Matthew 13:41-42 NASB
This is one of Jesus’ many warnings about the end times. He wants us to be ready. And yes, He speaks clearly about heaven and hell.
If you’re curious about one of the most asked biblical questions, check out this article about the unpardonable sin.
The Reward for the Righteous
“Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father.” – Matthew 13:43 NASB
While judgment is real, so is hope! Those who follow Christ will live in His eternal kingdom, free from sorrow and pain.
Heaven or Hell – The Choice is Ours
What Will You Choose?
In the end, these parables remind us that God is building His kingdom—and each of us has a choice. Will we accept His invitation or walk away?
- Heaven is full of peace, joy, and everlasting life with God.
- Hell is separation from God and filled with sorrow.
John 3:16 shows how much God loves us and the simple way to begin a relationship with Him.
The Seed of Christianity Still Grows
When Jesus talked about the mustard seed, He said it was the smallest of seeds but would grow into a big tree. That wasn’t just a nice story or poetic language—it was a prophecy, meaning He was speaking about something that would really happen in the future.
At the time, Jesus only had a small group of followers. But He knew that over time, His message would spread all over the world—and it has! That’s what we see today: millions of people across different countries have chosen to follow Him.
Why are people turning to Christianity?
Because they’re looking for:
- Hope in a world that often feels dark or uncertain
- Purpose—a reason to live beyond just day-to-day survival
- Forgiveness from past mistakes
- Love and peace that goes deeper than what the world offers
People are hearing about Jesus and discovering that His message brings comfort, direction, and real change in their lives. That’s why the mustard seed is still growing.
Want to learn more about current events and prophecy? Watch the video by Amir Tsarfati on the return of Jesus for a fresh, insightful perspective.
Be Ready for the Harvest
Jesus spoke clearly about the end times—not to scare us, but to prepare us. He wants us to be ready, and He’s calling us to faith, trust, and obedience.
If you’re searching for hope, comfort and truth in today’s world, you’ll find it in Christ. Learn more through the many resources at Making Christ Known.
Love in Christ,
– Bob
Are you ready for the harvest? Jesus is calling. Let’s listen, believe, and follow.