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Matthew 20:7

They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive.

Matthew 20:7 · King James Version

Meaning

Matthew 20:7-8 recounts a parable told by Jesus about workers in a vineyard who were hired at different times of the day. The workers who were hired later in the day received the same wage as those who had been working since morning. This verse emphasizes the fairness and generosity of God's grace. The landowner represents God, who doesn't differentiate between those who come to Him early in life and those who come later. This verse highlights the equal reward and acceptance that all believers receive, regardless of when they come to faith. It serves as a reminder that God's grace is available to all, and that salvation is not based on works or how long one has been a believer, but on faith in Him. It encourages believers to focus on serving God faithfully and trusting in His just and generous nature to provide for their needs.

Theological Overview

In this passage, Jesus tells the parable of the laborers in the vineyard. The theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the themes of equality, generosity, and grace. The vineyard can be seen as a symbol of the kingdom of God, where all are called to work for the Lord. The landowner's response to the laborers who had not been hired earlier in the day demonstrates the concept of grace, where God's rewards are given not based on merit but on His generous nature. The word study of 'hired' emphasizes the idea of being chosen or called by God to serve Him. The importance of doing God's work is highlighted by the phrase 'whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive', indicating that our ultimate reward comes from obedience and faithfulness to God's calling. Overall, this verse encourages believers to trust in God's fairness and to be willing to serve Him regardless of the timing or circumstances.

Matthew 20:7 in other translations

American Standard Version

They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard.

World English Bible

“They said to him, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ “He said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and you will receive whatever is right.’

Douay-Rheims

They say to him: Because no man hath hired us. He saith to them: Go ye also into my vineyard.

Geneva Bible (1599)

They sayd vnto him, Because no man hath hired vs. He sayd to them, Goe ye also into my vineyard, and whatsoeuer is right, that shall ye receiue.