THE PARABLE OF THE TWO SONS – Matthew 21:28-32
As we have already discovered the parables of Jesus not only explain truths but they also expose the heart. This is another series of parables that Jesus taught. We studied the seven parable series in Matthew 13 about the kingdom of God. This parable is part of a series of three parables that Christ spoke at one time. Remember that Matthew writes primarily for a Jewish audience, (Vineyard is Israel – see Is. 5), and the Spirit is revealing through him that Jesus is King of kings. To understand this parable you must look at its context. Jesus had just overthrown the money tables in the Temple. The religious leaders were mad. They asked a question about His authority in verse 23. In response Jesus tells this exposing parable. What does this parable reveal about you?
I. The Illustration Christ Uses in the Parable (28-30)
A. The Illustration Reveals a Relationship {Father – Son} (28)
Israel – God’s chosen sons. Also, the Bible reveals that we too are the sons of God when we are born again.
B. The Illustration Reveals Responsibilities of Sons. (28, 30)
(Many times in preaching about God’s grace we leave out the message of responsibility. God wants us to serve him. It is in the Father’s vineyard where we are to serve.)
C. The Illustration Reveal the Responses of Sons Who are Ask to Serve (29, 30)
1. The response of the repentant – rebellious but repentant. Goodness of God led to repentance = metanoia = reversal or reformation.
2. The response of the self-righteous – talked the talk, but did not walk the walk. (Matthew 3:7-12, John 1:19-28)
II. The Question That Christ Asked About The Parable. (31)
A. It Was An Easy Question.
B. It Was An Exposing Question.
III. The Application Christ Gives about This Parable (31b-32)
A. It Was A Personal Application. “For I say unto you…”
B. It Was Powerful Application.
1. The acceptance of the unaccepted was because of their repentance.
2. The rejection of the reputable was because of their lack of repentance.
3. The reason for both was a belief issue.
Conclusion: Although this parable is primarily about Israel it applies to each one today. Be careful that you just don’t have an outward form of righteousness and you are not really born again. Jesus said in Matthew 7:21; "Not everyone who says to me, ’Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.” Later He said in Matthew 12:50; “For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. “
