Parables in Pentecost: Two Sons

 This week we look at a scenario that any parent can relate to. The parable talks about two sons. One who is obedient in action, and one who just says he will do what he is told. Probably everyone who has worked with children (and adults) has faced a similar response.

This parable comes the day after Jesus cleanses the temple (Matthew 21:12-17). When he returns the following day, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him as he was teaching, and said, ‘By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?’ (Matthew 21:23) In response, Jesus tells this story.

Scripture

‘What do you think? A man had two sons; he went to the first and said, “Son, go and work in the vineyard today.: ²⁹He answered, “I will not”; but later he changed his mind and went. ³⁰The father went to the second and said the same; and he answered, “I go, sir”; but he did not go. ³¹Which of the two did the will of his father?’ They said, ‘The first.’ Jesus said to them, ‘Truly I tell you, the tax-collectors and the prostitutes are going into the kingdom of God ahead of you. ³²For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him, but the tax-collectors and the prostitutes believed him; and even after you saw it, you did not change your minds and believe him. (Matthew: 21:28-32)

Conversation starters

Jesus tells us the first son pouts, “I won’t go work.” He probably added something about wanting to be with his friends or play a video game. The other son, however, says he is going to do the job, but never gets to the vineyard. Meanwhile, a guilty conscience strikes the first son. He goes to the vineyard to help.

Jesus tells the chief priests and elders, the tax-collectors and the prostitutes are going into the kingdom of God ahead of you. Later in the same chapter we hear, When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they realized that he was speaking about them. They wanted to arrest him, but they feared the crowds, because they regarded him as a prophet. (Matthew 21:45-46)

The Theology of Work Project applies this parable to daily life and work. “The folks who look the least religious will enter God’s kingdom ahead of religious leaders, because in the end they do God’s will…this reminds us that actions speak louder than words. Many organizations have mission statements declaring that their top aims are customer service, product quality, civic integrity, putting their people first, and the like. Yet many such organizations have poor service, quality, integrity, and employee relations. Individuals may do the same thing, extolling their plans, yet failing to implement them.” Parable of the Two Sons (Matthew 21:28-32) | Theology of Work

 Has there ever been a time when you refused to do what someone asked you to do? Did you feel guilty later?

Have you ever said you would take on a task, or even a ministry, and not followed through? Did you feel remorse?

Why do you think the Jewish leadership found this parable offensive enough to want to arrest Jesus?

Action Item

Play something like “Simon Says” or “Mother, May I” where participants must follow directions.

Talk about who has the ‘authority’ to give directions or orders. How do we know who to obey?

What are some signs of our authority? (Diplomas, licenses, etc.)