What does Matthew 21:28 mean?

"¶ But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard." - Matthew 21:28

"¶ But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard." - Matthew 21:28

Matthew 21:28 from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible reads:

"But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard."

This verse is part of a parable that Jesus tells to illustrate a point about obedience and repentance. In this parable, a father asks his two sons to go and work in his vineyard. The first son initially refuses, but later changes his mind and goes to work. The second son agrees to go, but ultimately does not go. Jesus uses this story to teach about the importance of action and the need for true repentance in the Kingdom of Heaven.

The themes present in this verse include obedience, repentance, and the nature of true faith. The parable challenges us to examine our own actions and attitudes towards God's commands. It also highlights the importance of sincerity in our relationship with God.

The context of this verse is important for understanding its full significance. In the preceding verses, Jesus has been teaching in the temple, and the religious leaders have been trying to entrap him with their questions. The parable of the two sons is part of a series of parables and teachings that Jesus uses to convey important truths about the Kingdom of God and to challenge the religious authorities about their own attitudes and behavior.

The symbolism in this verse is rich and meaningful. The two sons can be seen as representatives of different attitudes towards God and obedience. The first son, who initially refused but later obeyed, represents those who may have initially rejected God's call, but then repented and turned back to Him. The second son, who agreed verbally but did not obey, symbolizes those who may profess faith but do not follow through with action.

The vineyard also bears symbolic significance. In the Bible, the vineyard is often used as a representation of God's people or His kingdom. The work in the vineyard symbolizes the call to serve God and His purposes. The father can be seen as a representation of God, calling His children to be obedient and to participate in His kingdom's work.

The parable is a powerful reminder of the importance of true repentance and genuine obedience. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and actions, to ensure that our faith is not just lip service, but is demonstrated through our obedience to God's commands. It also serves as a warning against hypocritical attitudes and emphasizes the need for sincerity and authenticity in our relationship with God.

In conclusion, Matthew 21:28 from the King James Version of the Bible offers a profound and thought-provoking message about the nature of obedience, repentance, and faith. It challenges us to examine our own attitudes and actions towards God's commands and emphasizes the need for genuine sincerity and authenticity in our relationship with Him. The parable of the two sons serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of true repentance and obedience in the Kingdom of God.

Have questions about Matthew 21:28?

Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.

Matthew 21:28 Artwork

Matthew 21:28 - "¶ But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard."

Matthew 21:28 - "¶ But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard."

"¶ But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard." - Matthew 21:28

"¶ But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard." - Matthew 21:28

"But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard. He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went. And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not. Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him." - Matthew 21:28-32

"But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard. He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went. And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not. Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him." - Matthew 21:28-32

matthew 28:19

matthew 28:19

matthew 28:19

matthew 28:19

MATTHEW 28: 23

MATTHEW 28: 23

Matthew 23:28

Matthew 23:28

matthew 8:28

matthew 8:28

Matthew 28:11

Matthew 28:11

Matthew 23:28

Matthew 23:28

Genesis 28-21

Genesis 28-21

Genesis 21:28

Genesis 21:28

Matthew 28:19-20

Matthew 28:19-20

Matthew 28:19-20

Matthew 28:19-20

Matthew 28: 19-20

Matthew 28: 19-20

Matthew 28:19-20

Matthew 28:19-20

Matthew 9:21

Matthew 9:21

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 21

Matthew 21

Matthew 24:28 - "For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together."

Matthew 24:28 - "For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together."

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 9:21-22

Matthew 25:21

Matthew 25:21

Matthew 25:21

Matthew 25:21

Matthew 27:28 - "And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe."

Matthew 27:28 - "And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe."

Matthew 21:31

Matthew 21:31

Matthew 21:25

Matthew 21:25

Matthew 2:21

Matthew 2:21