What does the father's request reveal about obedience in Matthew 21:28? Setting the Scene Matthew 21:28: “But what do you think? A man had two sons; he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’” The Father’s Request: Key Observations • Personal: The father addresses each son individually—obedience is relational, not impersonal. • Direct: “Go and work” leaves no ambiguity, showing that God’s commands are clear. • Urgent: “Today” highlights that obedience is time-sensitive, not something to postpone. • Purposeful: “In the vineyard” points to a specific place of service; obedience has a defined mission. What the Request Reveals about Obedience • Initiated by Authority – The father speaks first; genuine obedience starts with recognizing rightful authority (cf. Genesis 2:16-17). • Requires Active Response – Work is commanded, not passive assent; true obedience moves from words to deeds (James 1:22). • Tested in Real Time – The command sets the stage for immediate choice, exposing the heart’s posture (Hebrews 3:15). • Measures Love by Action – Relationship and obedience are intertwined: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). • Values Faithfulness Over Lip Service – What follows in vv. 29-30 shows that saying “I will” means little without follow-through (Matthew 7:21). Supporting Passages • 1 Samuel 15:22—“To obey is better than sacrifice.” • John 15:14—“You are My friends if you do what I command you.” • Luke 6:46—“Why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ but not do what I say?” Applying the Lesson Today • Listen for God’s clear, specific directives in Scripture. • Respond promptly—delayed obedience is disobedience. • Engage actively; obedience involves effort and perseverance. • Evaluate promises against performance; let actions confirm words. Summary The father’s simple yet authoritative request—“Go and work today in the vineyard”—unveils obedience as relational, urgent, and action-oriented. It calls believers to hear God’s voice, submit without delay, and demonstrate love through tangible, timely service. |
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