How does Luke 20:13 challenge us to respond to God's ultimate messenger? The Owner’s Final Plea “ ‘What shall I do?’ asked the owner of the vineyard. ‘I will send my beloved son; perhaps they will respect him.’ ” (Luke 20:13) • The vineyard owner stands for God, who has already sent multiple messengers (prophets) and been ignored or mistreated (Luke 20:10-12). • The decision to send the beloved Son is not experimental but sacrificial—God knows exactly what it will cost (Acts 2:23). • This verse places us at the crossroads: every listener must decide whether to “respect” or reject the Son. The Identity of the Beloved Son • Hebrews 1:1-2—God “has spoken to us by His Son,” marking Jesus as the climactic, ultimate revelation. • John 3:16—He is beloved, unique, and willingly given so that we might live. • Colossians 1:15-17—The Son is Creator and Sustainer, not merely another servant. The Core Challenge: “Respect Him” Respect (Greek: entrepō) carries ideas of reverence, shame at the thought of dishonor, and a readiness to yield. Right response flows in four directions: 1. Heart—repentance and worship (Acts 2:37-38). 2. Mind—submission to His teaching (John 6:68). 3. Will—obedience that bears fruit (John 15:5-8). 4. Public witness—confessing Him openly (Romans 10:9-10). Positive Models of Respect • The disciples leaving nets to follow Him (Luke 5:11). • Zacchaeus receiving Him joyfully and making restitution (Luke 19:6-8). • Mary of Bethany pouring costly perfume in devotion (John 12:3). Each act shows tangible honor, costly surrender, and trust in His worth. Sobering Outcomes of Rejection • The tenants kill the son and lose the vineyard (Luke 20:14-16). • Psalm 2:12—“Kiss the Son… lest you perish in the way.” • Acts 4:11-12—There is no other name by which we must be saved. Literal judgment fell on Jerusalem in A.D. 70; an everlasting judgment awaits all who spurn Christ (Revelation 20:11-15). Practical Takeaways for Today • Examine current attitudes: indifference toward Christ is functional rejection (Hebrews 2:3). • Prioritize His words over cultural voices; He alone carries final authority (Matthew 28:18). • Offer concrete honor—time, resources, talents—demonstrating He is more than a guest; He is Lord of the house (Colossians 3:17). • Remain fruit-bearing tenants by abiding in Him through regular Scripture intake, prayer, fellowship, and obedient service (John 15:9-10). Summary Luke 20:13 confronts every reader with God’s supreme overture: the sending of His beloved Son. Respecting that Messenger means wholehearted repentance, faith, and ongoing obedience. Anything less aligns us with the tenants who forfeited everything. |
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