The Parable of the Workers 1“For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard. 2He agreed to pay them a denariusa for the day and sent them into his vineyard. 3About the third hourb he went out and saw others standing in the marketplace doing nothing. 4‘You also go into my vineyard,’ he said, ‘and I will pay you whatever is right.’ 5So they went. He went out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hourc and did the same thing. 6About the eleventh hourd he went out and found still others standing around. ‘Why have you been standing here all day long doing nothing?’ he asked. 7‘Because no one has hired us,’ they answered. So he told them, ‘You also go into my vineyard.’e 8When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the workers and pay them their wages, starting with the last ones hired and moving on to the first.’ 9The workers who were hired about the eleventh hour came and each received a denarius. 10So when the original workers came, they assumed they would receive more. But each of them also received a denarius. 11On receiving their pay, they began to grumble against the landowner. 12‘These men who were hired last worked only one hour,’ they said, ‘and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden and the scorching heat of the day.’ 13But he answered one of them, ‘Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Did you not agree with me on one denarius? 14Take your pay and go. I want to give this last man the same as I gave you. 15Do I not have the right to do as I please with what is mine? Or are you envious because I am generous?’ 16So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”f The Third Prediction of the Passion 17As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, He took the twelve disciples aside and said, 18“Look, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and scribes. They will condemn Him to death 19and will deliver Him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and flogged and crucified. And on the third day He will be raised to life.” A Mother’s Request 20Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Jesus with her sons and knelt down to make a request of Him. 21“What do you want?” He inquired. She answered, “Declare that in Your kingdom one of these two sons of mine may sit at Your right hand, and the other at Your left.” 22“You do not know what you are asking,” Jesus replied. “Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?”g “We can,” the brothers answered. 23“You will indeed drink My cup,”h Jesus said. “But to sit at My right or left is not Mine to grant. These seats belong to those for whom My Father has prepared them.” 24When the ten heard about this, they were indignant with the two brothers. 25But Jesus called them aside and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them. 26It shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave— 28just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” The Blind Men by the Road 29As they were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed Him. 30And there were two blind men sitting beside the road. When they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” 31The crowd admonished them to be silent, but they cried out all the louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” 32Jesus stopped and called them. “What do you want Me to do for you?” He asked. 33“Lord,” they answered, “let our eyes be opened.” 34Moved with compassion, Jesus touched their eyes, and at once they received their sight and followed Him. Footnotes: 2 a A denarius was customarily a day’s wage for a laborer; similarly in verses 9, 10, and 13. 3 b That is, about nine in the morning 5 c That is, about noon and again about three in the afternoon 6 d That is, about five in the afternoon; also in verse 9 7 e BYZ and TR include and whatever is right, you shall receive. 16 f BYZ and TR include For many are called, but few are chosen. 22 g BYZ includes or be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized. TR is similar. 23 h BYZ and TR include and be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Matthew 20 Summary A Parable, a Prediction, and a RequestVerses 1–16 – Workers in the Vineyard Verses 17–19 – The Third Prediction Verses 20–28 – True Greatness Verses 29–34 – Two Blind Men Receive Sight In Matthew 20, Jesus expounds on the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven, the concept of service, and the power of faith through a series of teachings and miracles. As He nears Jerusalem, His lessons focus on humility, self-sacrifice, and the transformative power of belief. Literary Flow and Placement in Matthew Matthew groups this chapter between teachings on wealth (19:23–30) and the triumphal entry (21:1–11). The parable of the vineyard workers answers Peter’s earlier question about reward (19:27) and sets up Jesus’ call to humble service that follows. Historical and Cultural Insights: First-Century Day Laborers • Day laborers gathered at village squares before dawn, hoping an owner would hire them (cf. Tobit 5:8, extra-biblical). • A 12-hour workday (6 a.m.–6 p.m.) was standard; any partial day meant hunger if no wage was earned. • The landowner returns at the third, sixth, ninth, and eleventh hours (roughly 9 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., 5 p.m.), showing unusual concern. The Denarius: Coinage and Daily Wage Archaeologists have unearthed first-century Roman denarii bearing Tiberius Caesar’s image—commonly the pay for one day’s unskilled labor (cf. Matthew 22:19). The equal payment underlines God’s grace: reward is based on His generosity, not on hours logged. Divine Generosity and Human Jealousy: Lessons from the Vineyard 1. God initiates the hiring (grace) – Romans 5:8. 2. All agree on the wage (justice) – Genesis 18:25. 3. Those hired last receive first (reversal) – Luke 13:30. 4. Grumbling mirrors Israel’s wilderness complaints (Exodus 16:7–8). 5. The “evil eye” (v. 15, literal Greek) speaks of envy forbidden in Deuteronomy 15:9. Servant Leadership: The Kingdom’s Upside-Down Rule • The request from James and John’s mother echoes ambition like that of Adonijah (1 Kings 1:5). • Jesus flips status: greatness = service (Philippians 2:5–7). • “Your servant… your slave” (vv. 26–27) broadens to every disciple, not just apostles. “A Ransom for Many”: Redemption Foreshadowed • “Ransom” recalls Exodus 30:12–16, where silver ransomed lives. • Isaiah 53:11–12 undergirds “many.” • 1 Timothy 2:5–6 and 1 Peter 1:18–19 echo this verse, showing early church grasp of Jesus’ words. Road to Jerusalem: Geographical and Prophetic Significance • Climbing from Jericho (-825 ft) to Jerusalem (2,500 ft) pictures the ascent toward Calvary. • Zechariah 9:9’s king approaches Zion on a donkey in the next chapter, keeping the narrative rising to its climax. Jericho Archaeology and the Blind Men • Excavations at Tell es-Sultan confirm a thriving Herodian Jericho south of the mound, likely the setting here. • Roman roads from Jericho to Jerusalem have been traced; large crowds at Passover season would jam the route. • Matthew records two blind men, Mark and Luke one; multiple witnesses strengthen the historicity rather than contradict. Connections to the Old Testament • Vineyard imagery: Isaiah 5:1-7; Psalm 80:8-18. • First-last reversal: 1 Samuel 16:11–13 (David); Ecclesiastes 9:11. • Compassionate touch healing: Isaiah 35:5–6 foretells opened eyes. Echoes in the Early Church and Later Scripture • James references “Lord of Sabaoth” hearing the cries of defrauded laborers (James 5:4), perhaps reflecting vineyard themes. • Peter calls elders to shepherd “not lording it over” but serving (1 Peter 5:2–3), mirroring Matthew 20 leadership principles. • Revelation 5:9 sees the ransomed from “every tribe and tongue,” fulfilling “many.” Practical Application • Guard against comparison; celebrate grace shown to others. • Seek places to serve rather than seats of honor. • Remember Jesus’ clear prediction: the cross was no accident, and the resurrection is our assurance. Connections to Additional Scriptures Ephesians 2:8-9Emphasizes salvation by grace through faith, not by works. Philippians 2:3-7 Encourages believers to adopt the humility and servant mindset of Christ. Romans 9:14-16 Discusses God’s sovereign choice and mercy. 1 Peter 5:5-6 Calls for humility under God’s mighty hand, promising exaltation in due time. Teaching Points The Kingdom of Heaven is Like a VineyardJesus begins with a parable comparing the kingdom of heaven to a landowner hiring workers for his vineyard (Matthew 20:1). This sets the stage for understanding God's sovereign rule and His call to service. God’s Generosity The landowner pays all workers the same wage, regardless of the hours worked (Matthew 20:9-10). This illustrates God's grace, which is not earned by human effort but given freely. Human Perception of Fairness The workers who labored all day grumble about the equal pay (Matthew 20:11-12). This reflects our human tendency to compare and question God's fairness. The Last Will Be First Jesus concludes with the statement, So the last will be first, and the first will be last (Matthew 20:16). This challenges societal norms and emphasizes humility and service in God's kingdom. Jesus Predicts His Death Jesus foretells His suffering and resurrection, underscoring His mission and the ultimate act of service (Matthew 20:17-19). A Lesson on Servant Leadership Jesus teaches that greatness in His kingdom is measured by service, not authority (Matthew 20:26-28). Practical Applications Embrace God’s GraceRecognize that God’s grace is a gift, not a reward for our efforts. Let this understanding transform how we view others and ourselves. Avoid Comparisons Resist the temptation to compare your journey with others. Trust in God’s perfect plan and timing for your life. Serve with Humility Seek opportunities to serve others selflessly, following Jesus’ example of servant leadership. Focus on Eternal Rewards Keep your eyes on the eternal rewards promised by God, rather than earthly recognition or compensation. People 1. JesusThe central figure in the chapter, Jesus is depicted as the teacher and leader who shares the parable of the workers in the vineyard and predicts His death and resurrection. He is referred to as "Jesus" (Ἰησοῦς in Greek), emphasizing His role as the Messiah and Savior. 2. The Landowner In the parable of the workers in the vineyard, the landowner represents God. He hires laborers at different times of the day and pays them equally, illustrating the kingdom of heaven's principles of grace and generosity. 3. The Workers/Laborers These are the individuals hired by the landowner at various times throughout the day. They symbolize believers who enter the kingdom of heaven at different stages of life or history. 4. The Mother of Zebedee’s Sons She approaches Jesus with a request for her sons to sit at His right and left in His kingdom. Her actions reflect a misunderstanding of the nature of Jesus' kingdom. 5. James and John (Zebedee’s Sons) These two disciples are the sons of Zebedee. They are involved in the request made by their mother and are part of Jesus' inner circle of disciples. 6. The Other Ten Disciples The remaining disciples who become indignant at the request made by the mother of James and John. Their reaction provides an opportunity for Jesus to teach about servanthood and leadership. 7. The Two Blind Men As Jesus and His disciples leave Jericho, two blind men call out to Him for mercy. Jesus heals them, demonstrating His compassion and power. Each of these individuals or groups plays a role in illustrating the teachings and events described in Matthew 20. The chapter emphasizes themes of grace, servanthood, and the nature of the kingdom of heaven. Places 1. JerichoIn Matthew 20:29, Jericho is mentioned as Jesus and His disciples are leaving the city. Jericho is an ancient city located near the Jordan River in the West Bank. It holds significant historical and biblical importance, often associated with the account of the walls of Jericho falling in the Old Testament (Joshua 6). In the New Testament, it serves as a setting for several events in Jesus' ministry. 2. Jerusalem Although not directly mentioned in the verses of Matthew 20, Jerusalem is implied as the destination in the context of the chapter. Earlier in Matthew 20:17, Jesus is on His way to Jerusalem, where He predicts His suffering, death, and resurrection. Jerusalem is the central city of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple, making it a focal point in Jesus' final days and His crucifixion. Events 1. Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16)Jesus tells a parable about a landowner who hires workers at different times of the day to work in his vineyard. At the end of the day, he pays them all the same wage, illustrating the kingdom of heaven and the concept of divine grace. The Greek word "ἄμπελος" (ampelos) refers to the vineyard, symbolizing God's kingdom. 2. Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection (Matthew 20:17-19) As Jesus and His disciples are going up to Jerusalem, He takes the Twelve aside and foretells His betrayal, condemnation, crucifixion, and resurrection. The Greek term "παραδίδωμι" (paradidōmi) is used for "betrayed," indicating a handing over or delivering up. 3. A Mother's Request (Matthew 20:20-23) The mother of James and John asks Jesus to grant her sons positions of honor in His kingdom. Jesus responds by speaking of the cup He must drink, referring to His impending suffering. The Greek word "ποτήριον" (potērion) is used for "cup," symbolizing the suffering and sacrifice Jesus will endure. 4. The Other Disciples' Indignation (Matthew 20:24-28) The other ten disciples become indignant at the request made by James and John's mother. Jesus teaches them about true greatness, emphasizing servanthood and sacrifice, saying, "the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve" (Matthew 20:28). The Greek word "διάκονος" (diakonos) is used for "servant," highlighting the call to serve others. 5. Healing of Two Blind Men (Matthew 20:29-34) As Jesus leaves Jericho, two blind men call out to Him, addressing Him as "Lord, Son of David." Moved with compassion, Jesus touches their eyes, and they immediately receive their sight and follow Him. The Greek word "ἐλεέω" (eleeō) is used for "have mercy," reflecting the plea for divine compassion and healing. Topics 1. The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16)This parable illustrates the kingdom of heaven, where a landowner hires workers at different times of the day but pays them all the same wage. It emphasizes God's grace and sovereignty in dispensing rewards. The Greek word "ἄμπελος" (ampelos) refers to the vineyard, symbolizing God's kingdom. 2. Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection (Matthew 20:17-19) Jesus foretells His suffering, death, and resurrection to His disciples as they journey to Jerusalem. This prediction underscores the fulfillment of prophecy and the necessity of His sacrificial mission. The Greek term "παραδίδωμι" (paradidōmi) is used for "betrayed," indicating the handing over of Jesus to the authorities. 3. A Mother's Request (Matthew 20:20-28) The mother of James and John requests that her sons sit at Jesus' right and left in His kingdom. Jesus teaches about servant leadership, stating that greatness in His kingdom comes through serving others. The Greek word "διάκονος" (diakonos) means "servant," highlighting the call to humble service. 4. Two Blind Men Receive Sight (Matthew 20:29-34) As Jesus leaves Jericho, two blind men call out to Him, addressing Him as "Son of David," a Messianic title. Jesus, moved by compassion, heals them, demonstrating His power and mercy. The Greek word "ἐλεέω" (eleeō) is used for "have mercy," reflecting the plea for divine compassion. Themes 1. The Kingdom of Heaven and Divine GenerosityThe parable of the workers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16) illustrates the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven, emphasizing God's generosity and sovereignty. The landowner's decision to pay all workers equally, regardless of their hours worked, highlights the Greek concept of "charis" (grace), underscoring that God's rewards are based on His grace rather than human merit. 2. The First and the Last Jesus concludes the parable with the statement, "So the last will be first, and the first will be last" (Matthew 20:16). This theme challenges societal norms and expectations, emphasizing humility and the reversal of worldly status in God's Kingdom. The Greek word "eschatos" (last) and "protos" (first) are used to illustrate this divine reversal. 3. Jesus’ Prediction of His Passion In Matthew 20:17-19, Jesus foretells His suffering, death, and resurrection. This theme highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the necessity of His sacrificial mission. The Greek term "anabainō" (going up) to Jerusalem signifies the purposeful journey towards His ultimate sacrifice. 4. Servant Leadership The request of James and John's mother for her sons to sit at Jesus' right and left in His kingdom (Matthew 20:20-28) leads to a teaching on true greatness. Jesus emphasizes that greatness in His Kingdom is marked by servanthood, using the Greek word "diakonos" (servant) and "doulos" (slave) to describe the posture of leadership. 5. The Ransom for Many Jesus states, "just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28). This theme underscores the atoning work of Christ, with the Greek word "lytron" (ransom) indicating the price paid for liberation from sin. 6. Compassion and Healing The healing of the two blind men near Jericho (Matthew 20:29-34) demonstrates Jesus' compassion and power. The Greek word "splagchnizomai" (moved with compassion) reflects the deep, visceral empathy of Jesus, leading to miraculous healing and the restoration of sight. Answering Tough Questions 1. Matthew 20:1–16 – If God is perfectly just, why would He reward latecomers the same as those who worked all day? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard teach us about God's grace and generosity? 2. How does Jesus' third prediction of His death and resurrection influence your understanding of His mission? 3. What does the request of James and John's mother reveal about their understanding of Jesus' kingdom? 4. How does the healing of the two blind men highlight the power of faith? 5. How does Jesus redefine greatness and leadership in His response to James and John's mother? 6. How can we apply the principles of humility and service illustrated in this chapter to our daily lives? 7. What does the reaction of the workers in the vineyard who were hired first teach us about human nature and expectations? 8. How does Jesus' teaching that "the last will be first, and the first last" challenge societal norms and values? 9. How does Jesus' self-description as a servant influence your perception of Him? 10. How can the healing of the blind men inspire greater faith in God's ability to meet our needs? 11. How can we apply the principle that "the last will be first, and the first last" in our homes, workplaces, and communities? 12. What are the implications of Jesus' statement that those who wish to be great must be servants? 13. How does the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard challenge our understanding of fairness? 14. How does Jesus' prediction of His death and resurrection reveal His obedience to God's will? 15. How can we cultivate the same level of faith exhibited by the two blind men? 16. In what ways can we embody Jesus' model of servant leadership in our various roles and responsibilities? 17. How does Jesus' reaction to the request from James and John's mother demonstrate His humility? 18. How does the healing of the two blind men show the relationship between faith and healing? 19. How does the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard inform our understanding of God's grace and our response to it? 20. How does Jesus' willingness to serve and give His life as a ransom influence our understanding of sacrifice and love? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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