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 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Bible, found in the book of Matthew (chapter 21, verse 28), tells the story of a man with two sons to whom he gives instructions to work in his vineyard. The symbolic meaning behind this parable is that the vineyard represents God's kingdom, and the man represents God. The two sons represent different types of people: the first son, who initially refuses his father's command but later obeys, represents sinners who may have strayed from God but eventually repent and do His will. The second son, who agrees to work in the vineyard but does not follow through, represents those who claim to follow God but do not act in accordance with His teachings. This verse serves as a reminder that actions speak louder than words and that true faith is demonstrated through obedience and commitment to God's will.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the parable of the two sons in the vineyard in Matthew 21:28-30 highlights the theme of obedience and repentance. In this passage, Jesus uses the illustration of a father asking his two sons to work in his vineyard. The first son initially refused but later changed his mind and went, while the second son agreed but did not follow through. This story serves as a lesson on the importance of repentance and action in the eyes of God. The word study reveals that the word "son" in Greek is "huios," denoting a close relationship between the father and sons. This emphasizes the familial context of the parable and the expectation of obedience within a family dynamic. The word "vineyard" in Greek is "ampelon," which represents both a physical vineyard and a metaphor for God's kingdom. By working in the vineyard, the sons are called to participate in God's work and demonstrate their faith through their actions.
Matthew 21:28 in other translations
American Standard Version
But what think ye? A man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to-day in the vineyard.
World English Bible
But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first, and said, ‘Son, go work today in my vineyard.’
Douay-Rheims
But what think you? A certain man had two sons: and coming to the first, he said: Son, go work to day in my vineyard.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But what thinke ye? A certaine man had two sonnes, and came to the elder, and saide, Sonne, goe and worke to day in my vineyarde.