What is the meaning of Matthew 21:38? But when the tenants saw the son “ But when the tenants saw the son ” (Matthew 21:38) • The “tenants” symbolize Israel’s religious leaders entrusted with God’s vineyard (Isaiah 5:1-7; Matthew 21:33). • The “son” unmistakably points to Jesus, the Owner’s uniquely beloved Son, sent after the prophets (Hebrews 1:1-2; Mark 12:6). • Their seeing implies clear recognition, not ignorance. Like John 1:11, they encounter the rightful Son yet choose rejection. • Jesus’ arrival confronts them with authority they must either submit to (Matthew 7:29) or resist. they said to one another “ …they said to one another ” (Matthew 21:38) • A deliberate, collective conversation mirrors Psalm 2:2, “The kings of the earth take their stand… against the LORD and against His Anointed.” • Similar plotting appears in John 11:47-53, where chief priests and Pharisees scheme to preserve their position. • Group dialogue magnifies accountability: no one can claim innocence; all consent to the sin (Luke 23:23-24). ‘This is the heir. “ ‘This is the heir.’ ” (Matthew 21:38) • Their words acknowledge Jesus’ divine status—the heir of all things (Hebrews 1:2; Colossians 1:15-16). • Awareness deepens guilt; they are not merely misinformed but willfully rebellious (John 12:42-43). • Like Joseph’s brothers recognizing him as “dreamer” and plotting harm (Genesis 37:18-20), they resent the heir’s claim over them. Come, let us kill him and take his inheritance.’ “ ‘Come, let us kill him and take his inheritance.’ ” (Matthew 21:38) • The plan echoes earlier murderous councils (Matthew 12:14; 26:3-4). • They aim to seize authority over God’s people, clinging to power and prestige (John 11:48). • Yet Psalm 118:22 foretold their outcome: “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” • Their plot fulfills God’s redemptive purpose—through the Son’s death the inheritance is secured for believers (Galatians 4:4-7; Ephesians 1:11). summary Matthew 21:38 exposes calculated rebellion: trusted leaders clearly recognize Jesus as God’s rightful Son and heir, deliberately unite in murderous intent, and attempt to claim authority that belongs to Him alone. Their scheme, though wicked, advances God’s sovereign plan—Christ’s rejection leads to the cross, the cornerstone of salvation, and opens the inheritance to all who receive the Son. |
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