What is the meaning of Matthew 21:31? Which of the two did the will of his father? - Jesus circles back to the parable just told (Matthew 21:28-30). The point is obedience, not lip service. - Scripture consistently stresses that the Father’s will is done by action: • Matthew 7:21—“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father.” • James 1:22—“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • John 14:15—“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” - The question exposes hearts: doing what the Father asks is the real test of sonship. “The first,” they answered - The religious leaders give the obvious answer, showing they understand the lesson intellectually. - Yet their own lives contradict it; they are like the second son who said “I will” but did not go. - Luke 10:37 records a similar moment when a law expert answers correctly but needs to “go and do likewise.” - Romans 2:21 confronts the same hypocrisy: “You then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself?” Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you” - The phrase underscores absolute authority and reliability (cf. Matthew 5:18; John 3:3). - Jesus is not offering an opinion; He is issuing a divine verdict that cannot be overturned. “the tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you.” - Outcasts who repented at John’s preaching (Matthew 21:32; Luke 7:29-30) are already stepping into kingdom life. - Their quick obedience contrasts with the leaders’ stubborn refusal, fulfilling Luke 18:9-14 where the humble sinner goes home justified. - Matthew 9:10-13 shows Jesus welcoming such people because “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” - 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 reminds us that former lifestyles do not bar entry; cleansing and transformation come through Christ. - “Before you” is a solemn warning: religious heritage without repentance yields no preferential treatment (Philippians 3:4-9). summary Matthew 21:31 drives home that genuine obedience—prompt, humble, and repentant—is what the Father seeks. Words, titles, or positions cannot substitute for doing His will. Those society deems least likely can enter first when they repent and believe, while the self-righteous stand outside. The kingdom’s gate swings open to anyone who turns, trusts, and obeys. |
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