Matthew 21:31
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.
Matthew 21:31 · King James Version
Meaning
Jesus poses a question to the chief priests and elders, asking them which of two sons did the will of their father. When they respond that the first son obeyed, Jesus emphasizes the point that tax collectors and prostitutes will enter the kingdom of God before the religious leaders. This verse highlights the importance of action over words, as it is not enough to merely claim to follow God's will; one must actively do so. The publicans and harlots, though not initially seen as righteous, have chosen to repent and follow God's commandments, which is why they are granted entry into the kingdom. This serves as a reminder that true faith should be reflected in deeds, and those who humble themselves and seek forgiveness will ultimately find favor in God's eyes.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, the theological interpretation revolves around the concept of repentance and obedience to God's will. Jesus uses the parable of the two sons to illustrate that actions speak louder than words when it comes to following God. The first son initially refuses to obey his father but later repents and carries out his father's wishes, symbolizing a change of heart and a willingness to follow God's commands. In contrast, the religious leaders of the time, represented by the second son, claim to follow God but fail to do so in their actions. Jesus emphasizes that those who may have led sinful lives, such as the publicans and harlots, can still enter the kingdom of God through genuine repentance and obedience. This message serves as a reminder to prioritize true devotion and obedience to God over outward appearances of righteousness.
Matthew 21:31 in other translations
American Standard Version
Which of the two did the will of his father? They say, 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.
World English Bible
Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said to him, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Most certainly I tell you that the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering into the Kingdom of God before you.
Douay-Rheims
Which of the two did the father's will? They say to him: The first. Jesus saith to them: Amen I say to you that the publicans and the harlots shall go into the kingdom of God before you.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Whether of them twaine did the will of the father? They saide vnto him, The first. Iesus saide vnto them, Verely I say vnto you, that the Publicanes and the harlots goe before you into the kingdome of God.