Meaning of Matthew 21:28

This parable, spoken by Jesus to the chief priests and elders, introduces a scenario designed to expose their spiritual hypocrisy by presenting a stark contrast between outward profession and inward obedience. The father's request to his first son is a direct command, a call to labor in his vineyard, which symbolizes his will and work. The immediate response of this first son, though not explicitly stated in this introductory verse, will reveal his true character and understanding of his relationship with his father, setting the stage for Jesus' critique of those who claim to follow God but do not act accordingly.

Context and Background

Jesus is in Jerusalem during his final week, teaching in the Temple. Having just cleansed the Temple (Matthew 21:12-17) and silenced the chief priests and elders who challenged his authority (Matthew 21:23-27), he now poses a parable to them. This context is crucial; Jesus is directly confronting their spiritual leadership, highlighting their failure to embrace God's kingdom despite their claims of religious observance. The vineyard, a common Old Testament metaphor for Israel (Isaiah 5:1-7, Psalm 80:8-15), signifies God's people and his redemptive work.

Key Themes and Messages

The primary theme is the discrepancy between words and actions in religious life. The parable will ultimately contrast those who claim to obey God but refuse to do his will with those who, initially disobedient, later repent and act. It emphasizes that true righteousness is not found in outward declarations or religious titles but in heartfelt obedience to God's commands. The father’s request represents God’s call to service and discipleship, and the sons’ responses illustrate different attitudes toward that call.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this parable calls individuals to examine their own responses to God's will. Are we like the first son who says he will go but does not, or like the second who initially refuses but then repents and obeys? It underscores that genuine faith is demonstrated through obedience. For believers today, this means actively engaging in God's work, whether through evangelism, service within the church, or living a life that reflects Christ's teachings in the world. It challenges complacency and calls for a proactive, willing spirit in serving the Lord.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This parable aligns with the consistent biblical emphasis on obedience as a hallmark of true discipleship. From Abraham's obedience in leaving his homeland to the New Testament call to follow Christ, obedience is presented as the fruit of genuine faith. It also speaks to God's persistent seeking of a people who will honor him, a narrative that runs from the Old Testament covenant to the establishment of the Church. The parable foreshadows how many who were considered "outsiders" (like tax collectors and sinners) would enter the Kingdom before the religious elite who rejected Jesus.

Analogies

Imagine a parent asking a child to help with a chore. The first child might say, "Yes, Dad, I'll do it right away!" but then goes off to play video games. The second child might grumble, "No, I don't want to," but then, upon reflection, realizes their responsibility and proceeds to complete the task. The father's request is the same, but the sons' responses reveal their true dispositions. The vineyard represents the family’s garden, and the work is essential for its flourishing.

Relation to Other Verses

This parable is in direct dialogue with Jesus' earlier statement in Matthew 7:21: "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of the heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven." It also echoes the prophetic critique in Isaiah 29:13: "The Lord says: 'These people come near to me with their mouths and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is based on merely human principles they have learned.'" Furthermore, Jesus' interaction with tax collectors and sinners, who repented and followed him, while the Pharisees and scribes rejected him (Luke 7:29-30), provides a historical and theological backdrop to the parable's eventual conclusion.