Matthew 21:28-31

In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus says: "A father said to his two sons, 'Go and work in the vineyard today.' The first replied, 'I will not,' but thought better of it and went. The second replied, 'Certainly, sir,' but did not go. Which of the two did the father's will?" Those listening said, "The first."

Only the gospel of Matthew relates this parable. It seems directed at the Jews who believed they were the righteous leaders of Israel. They, like the son who professed to obey, have in fact disobeyed. On the other hand, the sinners, tax collectors and harlots, who did not at first accept the authority of God but later repented of their sin, will be forgiven by God. They will go into the kingdom ahead of the others.

The gospel of Matthew is about separating out the saved and forgiven from those who are not saved, because they have not repented and sought forgiveness. The author seems to be writing for a congregation of Christians who are mostly Jewish and in conflict with Jews that do not recognize Jesus as the Messiah. There is an anti-Jewish edge in this gospel that cannot have come from the teachings of Jesus, who in the gospel of Matthew only goes to the Jews.

Grace and peace...Bob