Which son truly obeyed his father's will?

Historical and Literary Context

The question “Which son truly obeyed his father’s will?” finds its most direct biblical answer in the parable of the two sons recounted in Matthew 21:28–32. Preserved reliably through ancient manuscripts—including the compilation and transmission process evident in sources like the Dead Sea Scrolls’ witness to Scriptural consistency—this passage has been recognized in church history as an instructive story commanding thoughtful evaluation of true obedience versus mere lip service. The Berean Standard Bible text underscores the practical lessons of repentance and following through on one’s promises.

Scriptural Text (Matthew 21:28–32)

“‘But what do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first one and said, “Son, go and work today in the vineyard.”

“I will not,” he replied. But later he changed his mind and went.

Then the man went to the second son and told him the same thing.

“I will, sir,” he said. But he did not go.

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 before you. For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him; but the tax collectors and prostitutes did believe. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.’”

Explanation of the Parable

In this parable, the first son initially refuses his father’s request to work in the vineyard but eventually goes, thereby doing the actual will of his father. The second son verbally affirms he’ll carry out the task but never does. This contrast between stated intentions and actual obedience illuminates how genuine commitment is measured by action, not by words alone. In the immediate context of Jesus’ teaching, it highlights the contrast between religious leaders who claim faithfulness but reject God’s messengers, and repentant sinners who—though initially disobedient—turn and obey the call to righteousness.

Obedience That Pleases the Father

1. True Obedience vs. Verbal Affirmation

The first son’s transformation from refusal to action shows that biblical obedience involves the heart and the will. While he initially rejects his father’s authority, he later repents and fulfills the requirement. This illustrates that even those who have wandered can reverse course in sincerity and please God through repentance and yielding to His instruction.

2. The Importance of Repentance

The son’s decision to “change his mind” is central. Scripture consistently teaches that repentance—metanoia in the Greek—goes beyond feeling sorry and requires a realignment of one’s life. This parable ties in closely with teachings such as Luke 15:7, which declares joy in heaven over one sinner who repents. Despite the initial disobedience, the first son’s humble turn of heart exemplifies the very essence of repentance that God honors.

3. Contrast with Hypocrisy

The second son appears compliant, saying “I will, sir,” but never fulfills his word. Jesus uses this character to expose hypocrisy. While verbal assent may seem pious, empty promises bring no true obedience. In both Israel’s history and the broader human experience, outward religiosity without real follow-through receives frequent rebuke from God (e.g., Isaiah 29:13).

Old Testament Echoes

1. Call for Faithful Obedience

Throughout the Hebrew Scriptures, the same principle resonates. In 1 Samuel 15:22, the prophet Samuel declares, “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice.” This statement underscores that genuine compliance with God’s directives is foundational, surpassing ceremony or lip service.

2. God’s Heart for the Repentant

Passages such as Ezekiel 18:23–32 highlight that God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Just as the first son eventually chose to go into the vineyard, so those who repent—even after initial rebellion—experience God’s gracious acceptance.

New Testament Confirmation

1. Consistency in Jesus’ Teachings

This parable aligns with Jesus’ broader message that “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 7:21). Rather, those who do the Father’s will are recognized. This central emphasis on actionable obedience lines up neatly with the apostolic writings that follow.

2. James on Faith and Works

James 2:17 underscores that “faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead.” The second son’s empty words correlate with a faith that lacks deeds. Meanwhile, the first son’s eventual obedience mirrors a faith proven by works.

Practical Implications and Behavioral Insights

1. Actions Reflect Inner Transformation

Research in behavioral science often demonstrates that lasting change is evidenced by consistent actions over time. A mere pledge without behavioral follow-through suggests no true conversion of heart—whether in a spiritual realm or in human enterprise.

2. Hope for Those Who Stray

The parable reassures that an initial refusal need not be final. Much like well-documented personal transformations in contemporary life—from individuals overcoming addictions to those turning back to God after rebellion—this parable reminds us that repentance is possible and powerful.

Archaeological and Manuscript Corroboration

1. Support for Matthew’s Reliability

Numerous manuscript discoveries, such as those reflected in the large families of New Testament papyri and codices (e.g., Codex Vaticanus, Codex Sinaiticus), confirm the stability of the Gospel accounts over centuries. This preserved textual fidelity allows us to trust the reliability of passages like Matthew 21:28–32.

2. Historical Evidence of Early Christian Teaching

Early church writings (e.g., those of Papias and Irenaeus) cite and build upon the commands of Jesus, including themes of authentic obedience. Such external attestations reinforce the continuity of interpretation regarding this parable.

Answer to the Question: The Son Who Repented and Acted

When Jesus asks in Matthew 21:31, “Which of the two did the will of his father?” the onlookers rightly respond, “The first.” Their answer crystallizes the core message: it is not those who merely claim obedience that truly honor the father, but those who eventually carry out the father’s instructions. In spiritual terms, the truly obedient child of God is the one who surrenders, repents, and then fulfills the work the Father calls him to do.

Key Takeaways

• “Yes” in word alone without obedient action falls short.

• God values transformation, so even a delayed “I will” made real by repentance is received.

• The parable compels self-examination: have we just spoken words of compliance, or do our lives demonstrate genuine obedience?

• This teaching aligns with the consistent biblical witness that outward declarations must match one’s lived-out faith.

Conclusion

Which son truly obeyed his father’s will? The one who might have said “no” at first but later went out and worked. This parable remains an evergreen lesson in the necessity of heartfelt obedience, repentance, and alignment with God’s righteous standards—a timeless principle that speaks to every generation. The enduring message instructs all who read it to align words and deeds, thereby embracing the faithful path that the Father honors.