The parable of the workers in the vineyard addresses individual circumstances with equal reward. Life is not exactly the same for any two of us. Some begin serving God early in life and remain faithful until death after many years. Others find their way to the Lord later on and have very little time to live for him before death comes. What does God require? Be faithful, even to the point of death (Rev. 2:10). Judgment is the great equalizer. Salvation will be the same for all who hear the Lord’s “welcome home.” We can do it. God will help us across the finish line.
On the way to Jerusalem, Jesus again told his disciples that he would be condemned and crucified. Men were wrong to do it, but it was God’s plan that Jesus’ be sacrificed for our sins (Acts 2:23). Our own sins witness that Jesus’ death was necessary. Let us be grateful and let us be faithful.
All along, Jesus’ apostles struggled to understand the nature of his coming kingdom. They were familiar with the Caesars and the puppet kings of Israel. The request made by the mother of James and John reflected the attitude of the entire group of apostles. They wanted to assist in Jesus’ rule over his kingdom. What a misunderstanding! There would be no cushy office jobs for them. They would not exercise authority in the usual sense. Travel, sacrifice, teaching, rejection. These things would be their lot. The measure of greatness in the New Testament kingdom is service. The way up is down. The Gentiles (rulers of the world) “lord it over” people. Peter uses the same terminology as he teaches elders how to lead God’s people: “Not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock” (1 Pet. 5:3). Servant leadership is the Bible way.
Jesus gladly restored the sight of two blind men who asked for mercy and healing. Out of gratitude, they followed him. May Jesus continue to give us spiritual sight, and may we follow where he leads.
My comments are not an inspired commentary, but rather a few words to draw attention to the background, context, and dynamic situation of Matthew’s gospel. May God bless your reading of His Word. T.C.
