Day 32 - Exodus 27-28 & Matthew 21:23-46
“What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ And he answered, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he changed his mind and went. And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, ‘I go, sir,’ but did not go. Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes go into the kingdom of God before you.” (Matthew 21:28-31 ESV)
Jesus, the consummate teacher, is using one of His favorite teaching methods, the parable. This earthly story is very easy to understand, especially if you are a parent. It is not uncommon for our children to say that they will do what we expect them to do, only to never seem to get around to it. How precious are the rare occasions when the child refused to obey, but later relents and carries out what you had wanted him or her to do in the first place. Obviously, you are pleased with the obedient one, regardless of what the first response may have been.
The spiritual meaning is one that we church people need to listen to carefully. It is too easy to become complacent, to foolishly take comfort in having our names on a church membership roster, or relying on our feeble accomplishments to get us into heaven. The reality is that God is calling repentant sinners and not self-righteous pharisees.
The purpose of the parable is a call us to genuine Christianity, and that means faith in Christ, and repentance of sin, revealed in the attempt to amend our sin-filled lives.
Delay not, delay not! Why longer abuse
The love and compassion of Jesus, your God?
A fountain is opened; how can you refuse
To wash and be cleansed in his pardoning blood?
(Delay Not, Delay Not, o Sinner, Draw Near,
The Lutheran Hymnal, Concordia Publishing House, 1941, #349, stanza 5)
Heavenly Father, may the Holy Spirit work genuine faith in me that is revealed in heartfelt repentance. May I never forget how desperately I need Your unmerited forgiveness. May I show my thankfulness by living the rest of my life for You. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf
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