John Calvin Commentary Matthew 13:41

"The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that cause stumbling, and them that do iniquity," — Matthew 13:41 (ASV)

They shall gather out of his kingdom all stumbling-blocks: the words that follow, and those who commit iniquity, are added for the sake of exposition. For it is not intended to point out two different things, but to state that then will be the full and fitting time, when all things will be restored to regular order, and when the wicked will be removed, who are now stumbling-blocks.

They are so called because not only are their own lives wicked, but they undermine the faith of many, hinder others in the right course, lead some completely astray, and drive others headlong.

We should draw from this a useful admonition: not to become idle and careless on account of our being surrounded by so many stumbling-blocks, but to be zealous and active in guarding against them.

It also reproves the softness of those who are so delicate that the smallest possible stumbling-blocks make them turn back.²¹⁶ It is difficult, I admit, not to stumble frequently, and even sometimes to fall, when stumbling-blocks without number lie across our path.

But our minds should be fortified with confidence; for the Son of God, who commands his followers to walk in the midst of stumbling-blocks, will undoubtedly give us strength to overcome them all.

He also pronounces an awful punishment against any hypocrites and reprobate persons who now appear to be the most distinguished citizens of the Church.

²¹⁶ “Ils tournent incontinent bride;” — “they immediately wheel about.”;” — “they immediately wheel about.”