How can we apply the lesson of Matthew 21:37 in our daily lives? Setting the Scene “Finally, he sent his son to them. ‘They will respect my son,’ he said.” (Matthew 21:37) The landowner’s son represents the Father’s climactic, personal appeal. After many patient overtures through servants (the prophets), God arrives in person through His Son. The verse confronts every generation with a simple choice: honor the Son or repeat the tenants’ deadly rejection. The Heart of the Lesson • God’s patience has limits; His final word is Jesus (Hebrews 1:1-2). • Honoring the Son is not optional. Our response determines our standing with the Father (John 3:36). • Stewardship is serious. We are tenants, not owners (Psalm 24:1). • Fruit is expected. Genuine respect for the Son produces visible obedience (John 15:8). Daily Applications • Acknowledge His ownership. Start each day reminding yourself that everything—time, body, finances—belongs to Christ. • Yield to His authority. When Scripture speaks, treat it as the voice of the Son, not a suggestion (Luke 6:46-49). • Produce fruit willingly. Look for concrete ways to obey: forgive, serve, give, testify (Galatians 5:22-23). • Guard against entitlement. Replace “my rights” with “His vineyard”; cultivate gratitude rather than demand (1 Corinthians 4:7). • Share the Owner’s message. The tenants silenced the servants; we amplify the gospel so others respect the Son (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Anticipate accountability. Live mindful that the Owner will return and settle accounts (Romans 14:10-12). Practical Steps 1. Begin mornings by reading a Gospel passage, listening to the Son’s voice. 2. List three resources you manage (job, home, relationships). Pray over each: “How do You want them used today?” 3. Choose one act of obedience you have delayed; complete it within 24 hours. 4. Speak the name of Jesus in at least one conversation daily. 5. End the day reviewing fruit produced, thanking Him for grace where you fell short. Scriptures to Keep Close • Hebrews 1:2 — “In these last days He has spoken to us by His Son.” • Romans 8:32 — “He who did not spare His own Son... will He not also grant us all things?” • John 15:5 — “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” • Colossians 1:18 — “So that in all things He may have the preeminence.” |
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