How does Matthew 21:31 connect with the parable of the prodigal son? Setting the Scene • Matthew 21:31—“Which of the two did the will of his father?” “The first,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you.” • Luke 15:20–24 records the father’s welcome to the prodigal: “While he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion… ‘For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ ” Shared Storyline: Two Sons, Two Responses • In both accounts a father addresses two sons. • One son initially rebels but later turns, does the father’s will, and is received with joy. • The other son appears compliant on the surface yet refuses true obedience and fellowship. Reversal of Expectations • Jesus shocks His hearers in Matthew 21:31: despised sinners go in first. • Likewise, the prodigal—socially disgraced—receives robe, ring, and feast ahead of the resentful elder brother. • Isaiah 55:7 echoes the theme: “Let the wicked forsake his way… and He will abundantly pardon.” Repentance Over Reputation • The first son (Matthew 21) and the prodigal (Luke 15) both say, “I will go” after realizing their sin. • Genuine repentance, not a polished past, secures the father’s favor (Psalm 51:17). • The outwardly obedient brother and the “second son” prove that empty words cannot replace a changed heart (Matthew 15:8). Warning to the Religious • Jesus aims Matthew 21:31 at chief priests and elders; the elder brother embodies the same attitude. • Romans 2:4–5 warns that presuming on God’s kindness while harboring hardness stores up wrath. • The lesson: heritage and rule-keeping do not guarantee kingdom entry—humble surrender does. Grace Toward the Marginalized • Tax collectors, prostitutes, and prodigals all illustrate Ephesians 2:13: “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” • Both parables spotlight a father who runs, forgives, and celebrates; grace overrides social standing. Living the Message • Examine whether words match actions; say “yes” to God with both lips and life (James 1:22). • Celebrate every repentant sinner; avoid the elder brother’s coldness (Luke 15:32). • Rejoice that even late obedience is welcomed—there is still time to “enter the kingdom of God ahead” of those who only pretend. |
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