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MATTHEW 20
Matthew 20 begins with that key phrase we have been following, the kingdom of heaven.
Jesus has taught us some things about the kingdom of heaven and has given us some invaluable lessons about life in the kingdom. We are about to explore even more.
Jesus uses the metaphor of the vineyard which is God’s most favorite way of describing His people. (Is. 5:1-6, 7, Is. 58:6-8, Jer. 7:1-3, 4-11, Matt 20:16)
The landowner showed grace to his workers. Lesson for life we can take away from this is that it is by grace that we are saved, not by works, or by how long we have worked.
The next parable is about two sons. One said he would but he didn’t and the other said he would not but he did. We enter the kingdom by believing. The second son had some time to think about his decision. The message here is to repent, for the kingdom is at hand. It is on the inside which counts. We have misunderstood what belief is. In Old English the word is bylive, or to live by. What you really believe is seen in what comes out of your life. If you are really saved, then your life will match that claim.
Jesus is teaching that the last shall be first and the first shall be last. Is that confusing to you? Does it make you jealous?
Chapter 20
Parable of the Vineyard Workers
1 “For the Kingdom of Heaven is like the landowner who went out early one morning to hire workers for his vineyard.2 He agreed to pay the normal daily wageand sent them out to work.3 “At nine o’clock in the morning he was passing through the marketplace and saw some people standing around doing nothing.4 So he hired them, telling them he would pay them whatever was right at the end of the day.5 So they went to work in the vineyard. At noon and again at three o’clock he did the same thing.6 “At five o’clock that afternoon he was in town again and saw some more people standing around. He asked them, ‘Why haven’t you been working today?’7 “They replied, ‘Because no one hired us.’“The landowner told them, ‘Then go out and join the others in my vineyard.’8 “That evening he told the foreman to call the workers in and pay them, beginning with the last workers first.9 When those hired at five o’clock were paid, each received a full day’s wage.10 When those hired first came to get their pay, they assumed they would receive more. But they, too, were paid a day’s wage.11 When they received their pay, they protested to the owner,12 ‘Those people worked only one hour, and yet you’ve paid them just as much as you paid us who worked all day in the scorching heat.’13 “He answered one of them, ‘Friend, I haven’t been unfair! Didn’t you agree to work all day for the usual wage?14 Take your money and go. I wanted to pay this last worker the same as you.15 Is it against the law for me to do what I want with my money? Should you be jealous because I am kind to others?’16 “So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last.”
Jesus Again Predicts His Death
17 As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside privately and told them what was going to happen to him.18 “Listen,” he said, “we’re going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Manwill be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die.19 Then they will hand him over to the Romansto be mocked, flogged with a whip, and crucified. But on the third day he will be raised from the dead.”
Jesus Teaches about Serving Others
20 Then the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus with her sons. She knelt respectfully to ask a favor.21 “What is your request?” he asked. She replied, “In your Kingdom, please let my two sons sit in places of honor next to you, one on your right and the other on your left.”22 But Jesus answered by saying to them, “You don’t know what you are asking! Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of suffering I am about to drink?” “Oh yes,” they replied, “we are able!”23 Jesus told them, “You will indeed drink from my bitter cup. But I have no right to say who will sit on my right or my left. My Father has prepared those places for the ones he has chosen.”24 When the ten other disciples heard what James and John had asked, they were indignant.25 But Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them.26 But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant,27 and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave.28 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Jesus Heals Two Blind Men
29 As Jesus and the disciples left the town of Jericho, a large crowd followed behind.30 Two blind men were sitting beside the road. When they heard that Jesus was coming that way, they began shouting, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!”31 “Be quiet!” the crowd yelled at them. But they only shouted louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!”32 When Jesus heard them, he stopped and called, “What do you want me to do for you?”33 “Lord,” they said, “we want to see!”34 Jesus felt sorry for them and touched their eyes. Instantly they could see! Then they followed him.
Matt 20:1-34 (NLT)
If you were hired as a worker in the first group would you think it was not fair that those who were hired late in the day received the amount of money? Jesus is saying that He will show mercy on whomever He chooses. Jesus calls to everyone to believe in Him as their Savior. If respond on their deathbed and receive eternal life we should be happy for them. If our lot is to work a long time for the sake of the kingdom we should be happy that we can be useful in bringing others to know Jesus. We all receive the same reward of eternal life in the kingdom of heaven. Is it hard to show mercy on those you think don’t deserve it? It is easy to accept God’s mercy and forgiveness for ourselves, but we often get jealous when God forgives someone who has been rebellious and lived life like a party. What about those who have been crooked in business dealings and who have swindled many out of their life savings? Or what about those who have committed many murders and who give their life to the Lord just before they die?
Peter might have struggled with that because he asks what they will receive for giving up their home and everything to follow Jesus. Does Jesus’ reply satisfy you? Do you think it satisfied Peter or the other disciples? Matthew 19:27-30
Jesus then tells them about what He is going to face in the near future. He does not want His disciples to be uninformed. There is not a record of their response to Him. We are left to wonder how much of it they understood.
By the request of the mother of the sons of Zebedee, who may have been Mary’s aunt, Elizabeth’s sister, it is possible that she may have thought that the kingdom Jesus would set up would be an earthly rule. The disciples may have been unclear as to what was going to take place. Have you ever been unsure and didn’t understand what God was doing? Zebedee’s wife had just heard Jesus say that the disciples would sit on His throne, but perhaps because of their blood relationship she wanted them to have the highest position. Her request made the other disciples indignant. What none of them understood was that to be greatest you must be as a servant. This kingdom would not be one in which the ruler’s would lord over others. Jesus was going to give His life in order for this kingdom to come into place. The disciples were allowing their imagination be ruled by an earthly system. Jesus once again showed His compassion and mercy by healing two blind men. He must have had many thoughts about the upcoming events, but He still stopped to be about His Father’s business. We too should learn that no matter what is going on in our own lives, other people have needs too. We should not be come so self absorbed that we cannot see the needs in the world around us. Jesus’ actions may not have made much sense to the disciples at the time. Perhaps after the crucifixion and resurrection as they met to wait as Jesus said, they were able to discuss and maybe realize what Jesus was trying to teach them. The order of the stories, parables, and events in the book of Matthew fit in place to bring us a clearer understanding of what Jesus’ ministry and teaching was all about. He taught and led by example. Servant leadership is the example Jesus gave. Loving people, meeting needs, helping them catch the vision are move them into deeper relationship with God is the example He modeled. Picture a society where each of us is looking to serve one another. This is the society, a beautifully operating community, designed by God. Imagine all the business’s that offer human services that would be put of business if we each met each others needs.
There is one way to enter the kingdom of heaven. God is generous. “Lord, have mercy.” The words reveal the heart of a man. Jesus shows His heart when He responds to their cries of mercy. The Pharisees shout out “Why did you let them in?” The Gentiles, prostitutes, tax collectors, and the like don’t deserve it, right? It is by grace alone. No one can earn it. God has made all men equal. We enter the kingdom by believing. We don’t have to do anything special or say anything special. It is a matter of your heart. Are you willing follow? To enter the kingdom is more than just a belief. Are you ready to follow? You may have to lose your life, you will be hated, you may be persecuted, it may cost you a great deal; maybe everything you have, including family. Many who believe will not enter into the kingdom. Faith is an action word. Your life will reveal what you believe to be true. It starts in your heart and mind, but it also is life changing and empowering to be doing work for the kingdom. It would be good for you to stop right now and examine your own heart. Where are you?
MATTHEW 21
Are you righteous? How did you get that righteousness? Some believe they are righteous in their own eyes. It may be because of their accomplishments or because of piety. There is more than one kind of righteousness. There is a righteousness that is justification.
Justification
A forensic term, opposed to condemnation. As regards its nature, it is the judicial act of God, by which he pardons all the sins of those who believe in Christ, and accounts, accepts, and treats them as righteous in the eye of the law, i.e., as conformed to all its demands. In addition to the pardon (q.v.) of sin, justification declares that all the claims of the law are satisfied in respect of the justified. It is the act of a judge and not of a sovereign. The law is not relaxed or set aside, but is declared to be fulfilled in the strictest sense; and so the person justified is declared to be entitled to all the advantages and rewards arising from perfect obedience to the law (Rom 5:1-10).
It proceeds on the imputing or crediting to the believer by God himself of the perfect righteousness, active and passive, of his Representative and Surety, Jesus Christ (Rom 10:3-9). Justification is not the forgiveness of a man without righteousness, but a declaration that he possesses a righteousness which perfectly and for ever satisfies the law, namely, Christ's righteousness (2Co 5:21; Rom 4:6-8).
The sole condition on which this righteousness is imputed or credited to the believer is faith in or on the Lord Jesus Christ. Faith is called a "condition," not because it possesses any merit, but only because it is the instrument, the only instrument by which the soul appropriates or apprehends Christ and his righteousness (Rom 1:17; Rom 3:25, 26; Rom 4:20, 22; Php 3:8-11; Gal 2:16).
The act of faith which thus secures our justification secures also at the same time our sanctification (q.v.); and thus the doctrine of justification by faith does not lead to licentiousness (Rom 6:2-7). Good works, while not the ground, are the certain consequence of justification (Rom 6:14; Rom 7:6).
—Easton's Illustrated Dictionary
In Matthew 21 we have the scene of Jesus’ entry to Jerusalem. Jesus is going there because it is the time of the Passover and He wants to celebrate it. But more than that, He is the Passover lamb.
Chapter 21
Jesus’ Triumphant Entry
1 As Jesus and the disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the town of Bethphage on the Mount of Olives. Jesus sent two of them on ahead.2 “Go into the village over there,” he said. “As soon as you enter it, you will see a donkey tied there, with its colt beside it. Untie them and bring them to me.3 If anyone asks what you are doing, just say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will immediately let you take them.”4 This took place to fulfill the prophecy that said,
5 “Tell the people of Israel, ‘Look, your King is coming to you. He is humble, riding on a donkey— riding on a donkey’s colt.’”
6 The two disciples did as Jesus commanded.7 They brought the donkey and the colt to him and threw their garments over the colt, and he sat on it. 8 Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road ahead of him, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.9 Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around him were shouting,
“Praise God for the Son of David! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Praise God in highest heaven!”
10 The entire city of Jerusalem was in an uproar as he entered. “Who is this?” they asked.11 And the crowds replied, “It’s Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”
Jesus Clears the Temple
12 Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out all the people buying and selling animals for sacrifice. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the chairs of those selling doves.13 He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves!”14 The blind and the lame came to him in the Temple, and he healed them.15 The leading priests and the teachers of religious law saw these wonderful miracles and heard even the children in the Temple shouting, “Praise God for the Son of David.” But the leaders were indignant.16 They asked Jesus, “Do you hear what these children are saying?” “Yes,” Jesus replied. “Haven’t you ever read the Scriptures? For they say, ‘You have taught children and infants to give you praise.’”17 Then he returned to Bethany, where he stayed overnight.
Jesus Curses the Fig Tree
18 In the morning, as Jesus was returning to Jerusalem, he was hungry,19 and he noticed a fig tree beside the road. He went over to see if there were any figs, but there were only leaves. Then he said to it, “May you never bear fruit again!” And immediately the fig tree withered up.20 The disciples were amazed when they saw this and asked, “How did the fig tree wither so quickly?”21 Then Jesus told them, “I tell you the truth, if you have faith and don’t doubt, you can do things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen.22 You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it.”
The Authority of Jesus Challenged
23 When Jesus returned to the Temple and began teaching, the leading priests and elders came up to him. They demanded, “By what authority are you doing all these things? Who gave you the right?”24 “I’ll tell you by what authority I do these things if you answer one question,” Jesus replied.25 “Did John’s authority to baptize come from heaven, or was it merely human?” They talked it over among themselves. “If we say it was from heaven, he will ask us why we didn’t believe John.26 But if we say it was merely human, we’ll be mobbed because the people believe John was a prophet.”27 So they finally replied, “We don’t know.” And Jesus responded, “Then I won’t tell you by what authority I do these things.
Parable of the Two Sons
28 “But what do you think about this? A man with two sons told the older boy, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’29 The son answered, ‘No, I won’t go,’ but later he changed his mind and went anyway.30 Then the father told the other son, ‘You go,’ and he said, ‘Yes, sir, I will.’ But he didn’t go.31 “Which of the two obeyed his father?” They replied, “The first.” Then Jesus explained his meaning: “I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do.32 For John the Baptist came and showed you the right way to live, but you didn’t believe him, while tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even when you saw this happening, you refused to believe him and repent of your sins.
Parable of the Evil Farmers
33 “Now listen to another story. A certain landowner planted a vineyard, built a wall around it, dug a pit for pressing out the grape juice, and built a lookout tower. Then he leased the vineyard to tenant farmers and moved to another country.34 At the time of the grape harvest, he sent his servants to collect his share of the crop.35 But the farmers grabbed his servants, beat one, killed one, and stoned another.36 So the landowner sent a larger group of his servants to collect for him, but the results were the same.37 “Finally, the owner sent his son, thinking, ‘Surely they will respect my son.’38 “But when the tenant farmers saw his son coming, they said to one another, ‘Here comes the heir to this estate. Come on, let’s kill him and get the estate for ourselves!’39 So they grabbed him, dragged him out of the vineyard, and murdered him.40 “When the owner of the vineyard returns,” Jesus asked, “what do you think he will do to those farmers?”41 The religious leaders replied, “He will put the wicked men to a horrible death and lease the vineyard to others who will give him his share of the crop after each harvest.”42 Then Jesus asked them, “Didn’t you ever read this in the Scriptures?‘The stone that the builders rejectedhas now become the cornerstone.This is the Lord’s doing,and it is wonderful to see.’43 I tell you, the Kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation that will produce the proper fruit.44 Anyone who stumbles over that stone will be broken to pieces, and it will crush anyone it falls on.”45 When the leading priests and Pharisees heard this parable, they realized he was telling the story against them—they were the wicked farmers.46 They wanted to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowds, who considered Jesus to be a prophet.
Matt 21:1-46 (NLT)
Jesus came riding on a colt which shows peaceful intentions. Jesus’ actions affirmed is Messianic royalty as well as His humility. We read in Revelation that when He comes again He will be riding on a white horse and it will not bring a time of peace.
The Rider on the White Horse
11 Then I saw heaven opened, and there was a white horse! Its rider is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. 12 His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems; and he has a name inscribed that no one knows but himself. 13 He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is called The Word of God. 14 And the armies of heaven, wearing fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. 15 From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron; he will tread the wine press of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. 16 On his robe and on his thigh he has a name inscribed, "King of kings and Lord of lords."
Rev 19:11-17 (NRSV)
Bethphage (Matt. 21:1) was a village in the vicinity of the Mount of Olives about a half a mile east of Jerusalem. The donkey was the mount of royalty in the biblical period (21:2). The Zechariah passage (21:5; cf. Zech. 9:9) concerned God's great offer of salvation and restoration for Israel. Jesus rode the young colt of a donkey in fulfillment of Zechariah's prophecy. Jesus came in a gentle manner, not as a warrior on a war horse. "Branches" (Matt. 21:8; cf. John 12:13) were associated with rejoicing (cf. Lev. 23:40), and later with expressions of triumph or victory (1 Macc. 13:51). The passage surrounding Psalm 118:26, quoted by the crowds in Matthew 21:9, also concerned God's restoration of Israel through his chosen messenger (cf. Ps. 118:22-29). "Praise God" (21:9), a Hebrew imperative, means "save now." The crowd identified Jesus as "the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee" (Matt. 21:10-11) .—Tyndale Concise Bible Commentary
Those that take Christ for their King, must lay their all under his feet. Hosanna signifies, Save now, we beseech thee! Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord! But of how little value is the applause of the people! The changing multitude join the cry of the day, whether it be Hosanna, or Crucify him. Multitudes often seem to approve the gospel, but few become consistent disciples. When Jesus was come into Jerusalem all the city was moved; some perhaps were moved with joy, who waited for the Consolation of Israel; others, of the Pharisees, were moved with envy. So various are the motions in the minds of men upon the approach of Christ's kingdom. —Matthew Henry Concise
In verse 8 we have one of the few places where the Gospel records that Jesus’ glory is recognized on earth. Jesus boldly rode as the King of peace, and the crowd gladly joined Him. But these same people would bow to a political pressure and desert him in just a few days. We should remain on guard against superficial acclaim for Christ.
Jesus clears the Temple for the second time. (John 2:13-17) Merchants and money changers are set up in the court of the Gentiles. It crowded out the Gentiles who had come up to the Temple to pray and worship. Any practice that interferes with worshipping God should be stopped. Here again we see the contrast between the pious Jewish leaders and the hearts of sinners who love and serve their God. Jesus said His house should be a house of prayer. Jesus goes on to teach from a parable about prayer.
The cursing of the fig tree was a lesson in the relationship between faith and prayer (21:21). Jesus demonstrated to his disciples the power that was available to them through prayer. The foliage on the fig tree indicated that there should have been some early, small figs, but there were none. Jesus judged the tree for its false profession and its unfruitfulness (cf. John 15:6). This was Jesus' only destructive miracle.—Tyndale Concise Bible Commentary
This cursing of the barren fig-tree represents the state of hypocrites in general, and so teaches us that Christ looks for the power of religion in those who profess it, and the savour of it from those that have the show of it. His just expectations from flourishing professors are often disappointed; he comes to many, seeking fruit, and finds leaves only. A false profession commonly withers in this world, and it is the effect of Christ's curse. The fig-tree that had no fruit, soon lost its leaves. This represents the state of the nation and people of the Jews in particular. Our Lord Jesus found among them nothing but leaves. And after they rejected Christ, blindness and hardness grew upon them, till they were undone, and their place and nation rooted up. The Lord was righteous in it. Let us greatly fear the doom denounced on the barren fig-tree. —Matthew Henry Concise
How is your prayer life? Would you describe your life as a life lived by faith, a life lived in prayer? Prayer is powerful, and is a hallmark for the Christian. Ask God how your prayer life is and then spend some time talking to Him about it.
We are to have a proper attitude and position. We are to believe, be humble, have faith, have compassion and be a servant. How are you demonstrating that in your life? Does it come from a right heart attitude or because it is just the right thing to do?
Jesus warns the religious leaders that the kingdom will be taken from them because they did not recognize their Messiah. He has just taught through two parables that because of rejection of the Messiah, because of unbelief, because of not doing the Father’s will, they will perish. This is a warning for us too. Jesus was revealing what the heart was of the religious leaders. He exposed it and used it to try to get them to see the error of their ways. In trying to reach us with His love, God finally had to send His own Son. Jesus’ perfect life, His words of truth, His sacrifice of love are meant to cause us to listen to Him and to follow Him as Lord. If we ignore God’s gracious gift we reject God Himself.
Matthew 20 begins with that key phrase we have been following, the kingdom of heaven.
Jesus has taught us some things about the kingdom of heaven and has given us some invaluable lessons about life in the kingdom. We are about to explore even more.
Jesus uses the metaphor of the vineyard which is God’s most favorite way of describing His people. (Is. 5:1-6, 7, Is. 58:6-8, Jer. 7:1-3, 4-11, Matt 20:16)
The landowner showed grace to his workers. Lesson for life we can take away from this is that it is by grace that we are saved, not by works, or by how long we have worked.
The next parable is about two sons. One said he would but he didn’t and the other said he would not but he did. We enter the kingdom by believing. The second son had some time to think about his decision. The message here is to repent, for the kingdom is at hand. It is on the inside which counts. We have misunderstood what belief is. In Old English the word is bylive, or to live by. What you really believe is seen in what comes out of your life. If you are really saved, then your life will match that claim.
Jesus is teaching that the last shall be first and the first shall be last. Is that confusing to you? Does it make you jealous?
Chapter 20
Parable of the Vineyard Workers
1 “For the Kingdom of Heaven is like the landowner who went out early one morning to hire workers for his vineyard.2 He agreed to pay the normal daily wageand sent them out to work.3 “At nine o’clock in the morning he was passing through the marketplace and saw some people standing around doing nothing.4 So he hired them, telling them he would pay them whatever was right at the end of the day.5 So they went to work in the vineyard. At noon and again at three o’clock he did the same thing.6 “At five o’clock that afternoon he was in town again and saw some more people standing around. He asked them, ‘Why haven’t you been working today?’7 “They replied, ‘Because no one hired us.’“The landowner told them, ‘Then go out and join the others in my vineyard.’8 “That evening he told the foreman to call the workers in and pay them, beginning with the last workers first.9 When those hired at five o’clock were paid, each received a full day’s wage.10 When those hired first came to get their pay, they assumed they would receive more. But they, too, were paid a day’s wage.11 When they received their pay, they protested to the owner,12 ‘Those people worked only one hour, and yet you’ve paid them just as much as you paid us who worked all day in the scorching heat.’13 “He answered one of them, ‘Friend, I haven’t been unfair! Didn’t you agree to work all day for the usual wage?14 Take your money and go. I wanted to pay this last worker the same as you.15 Is it against the law for me to do what I want with my money? Should you be jealous because I am kind to others?’16 “So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last.”
Jesus Again Predicts His Death
17 As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside privately and told them what was going to happen to him.18 “Listen,” he said, “we’re going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Manwill be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die.19 Then they will hand him over to the Romansto be mocked, flogged with a whip, and crucified. But on the third day he will be raised from the dead.”
Jesus Teaches about Serving Others
20 Then the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus with her sons. She knelt respectfully to ask a favor.21 “What is your request?” he asked. She replied, “In your Kingdom, please let my two sons sit in places of honor next to you, one on your right and the other on your left.”22 But Jesus answered by saying to them, “You don’t know what you are asking! Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of suffering I am about to drink?” “Oh yes,” they replied, “we are able!”23 Jesus told them, “You will indeed drink from my bitter cup. But I have no right to say who will sit on my right or my left. My Father has prepared those places for the ones he has chosen.”24 When the ten other disciples heard what James and John had asked, they were indignant.25 But Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them.26 But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant,27 and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave.28 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Jesus Heals Two Blind Men
29 As Jesus and the disciples left the town of Jericho, a large crowd followed behind.30 Two blind men were sitting beside the road. When they heard that Jesus was coming that way, they began shouting, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!”31 “Be quiet!” the crowd yelled at them. But they only shouted louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!”32 When Jesus heard them, he stopped and called, “What do you want me to do for you?”33 “Lord,” they said, “we want to see!”34 Jesus felt sorry for them and touched their eyes. Instantly they could see! Then they followed him.
Matt 20:1-34 (NLT)
If you were hired as a worker in the first group would you think it was not fair that those who were hired late in the day received the amount of money? Jesus is saying that He will show mercy on whomever He chooses. Jesus calls to everyone to believe in Him as their Savior. If respond on their deathbed and receive eternal life we should be happy for them. If our lot is to work a long time for the sake of the kingdom we should be happy that we can be useful in bringing others to know Jesus. We all receive the same reward of eternal life in the kingdom of heaven. Is it hard to show mercy on those you think don’t deserve it? It is easy to accept God’s mercy and forgiveness for ourselves, but we often get jealous when God forgives someone who has been rebellious and lived life like a party. What about those who have been crooked in business dealings and who have swindled many out of their life savings? Or what about those who have committed many murders and who give their life to the Lord just before they die?
Peter might have struggled with that because he asks what they will receive for giving up their home and everything to follow Jesus. Does Jesus’ reply satisfy you? Do you think it satisfied Peter or the other disciples? Matthew 19:27-30
Jesus then tells them about what He is going to face in the near future. He does not want His disciples to be uninformed. There is not a record of their response to Him. We are left to wonder how much of it they understood.
By the request of the mother of the sons of Zebedee, who may have been Mary’s aunt, Elizabeth’s sister, it is possible that she may have thought that the kingdom Jesus would set up would be an earthly rule. The disciples may have been unclear as to what was going to take place. Have you ever been unsure and didn’t understand what God was doing? Zebedee’s wife had just heard Jesus say that the disciples would sit on His throne, but perhaps because of their blood relationship she wanted them to have the highest position. Her request made the other disciples indignant. What none of them understood was that to be greatest you must be as a servant. This kingdom would not be one in which the ruler’s would lord over others. Jesus was going to give His life in order for this kingdom to come into place. The disciples were allowing their imagination be ruled by an earthly system. Jesus once again showed His compassion and mercy by healing two blind men. He must have had many thoughts about the upcoming events, but He still stopped to be about His Father’s business. We too should learn that no matter what is going on in our own lives, other people have needs too. We should not be come so self absorbed that we cannot see the needs in the world around us. Jesus’ actions may not have made much sense to the disciples at the time. Perhaps after the crucifixion and resurrection as they met to wait as Jesus said, they were able to discuss and maybe realize what Jesus was trying to teach them. The order of the stories, parables, and events in the book of Matthew fit in place to bring us a clearer understanding of what Jesus’ ministry and teaching was all about. He taught and led by example. Servant leadership is the example Jesus gave. Loving people, meeting needs, helping them catch the vision are move them into deeper relationship with God is the example He modeled. Picture a society where each of us is looking to serve one another. This is the society, a beautifully operating community, designed by God. Imagine all the business’s that offer human services that would be put of business if we each met each others needs.
There is one way to enter the kingdom of heaven. God is generous. “Lord, have mercy.” The words reveal the heart of a man. Jesus shows His heart when He responds to their cries of mercy. The Pharisees shout out “Why did you let them in?” The Gentiles, prostitutes, tax collectors, and the like don’t deserve it, right? It is by grace alone. No one can earn it. God has made all men equal. We enter the kingdom by believing. We don’t have to do anything special or say anything special. It is a matter of your heart. Are you willing follow? To enter the kingdom is more than just a belief. Are you ready to follow? You may have to lose your life, you will be hated, you may be persecuted, it may cost you a great deal; maybe everything you have, including family. Many who believe will not enter into the kingdom. Faith is an action word. Your life will reveal what you believe to be true. It starts in your heart and mind, but it also is life changing and empowering to be doing work for the kingdom. It would be good for you to stop right now and examine your own heart. Where are you?
MATTHEW 21
Are you righteous? How did you get that righteousness? Some believe they are righteous in their own eyes. It may be because of their accomplishments or because of piety. There is more than one kind of righteousness. There is a righteousness that is justification.
Justification
A forensic term, opposed to condemnation. As regards its nature, it is the judicial act of God, by which he pardons all the sins of those who believe in Christ, and accounts, accepts, and treats them as righteous in the eye of the law, i.e., as conformed to all its demands. In addition to the pardon (q.v.) of sin, justification declares that all the claims of the law are satisfied in respect of the justified. It is the act of a judge and not of a sovereign. The law is not relaxed or set aside, but is declared to be fulfilled in the strictest sense; and so the person justified is declared to be entitled to all the advantages and rewards arising from perfect obedience to the law (Rom 5:1-10).
It proceeds on the imputing or crediting to the believer by God himself of the perfect righteousness, active and passive, of his Representative and Surety, Jesus Christ (Rom 10:3-9). Justification is not the forgiveness of a man without righteousness, but a declaration that he possesses a righteousness which perfectly and for ever satisfies the law, namely, Christ's righteousness (2Co 5:21; Rom 4:6-8).
The sole condition on which this righteousness is imputed or credited to the believer is faith in or on the Lord Jesus Christ. Faith is called a "condition," not because it possesses any merit, but only because it is the instrument, the only instrument by which the soul appropriates or apprehends Christ and his righteousness (Rom 1:17; Rom 3:25, 26; Rom 4:20, 22; Php 3:8-11; Gal 2:16).
The act of faith which thus secures our justification secures also at the same time our sanctification (q.v.); and thus the doctrine of justification by faith does not lead to licentiousness (Rom 6:2-7). Good works, while not the ground, are the certain consequence of justification (Rom 6:14; Rom 7:6).
—Easton's Illustrated Dictionary
In Matthew 21 we have the scene of Jesus’ entry to Jerusalem. Jesus is going there because it is the time of the Passover and He wants to celebrate it. But more than that, He is the Passover lamb.
Chapter 21
Jesus’ Triumphant Entry
1 As Jesus and the disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the town of Bethphage on the Mount of Olives. Jesus sent two of them on ahead.2 “Go into the village over there,” he said. “As soon as you enter it, you will see a donkey tied there, with its colt beside it. Untie them and bring them to me.3 If anyone asks what you are doing, just say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will immediately let you take them.”4 This took place to fulfill the prophecy that said,
5 “Tell the people of Israel, ‘Look, your King is coming to you. He is humble, riding on a donkey— riding on a donkey’s colt.’”
6 The two disciples did as Jesus commanded.7 They brought the donkey and the colt to him and threw their garments over the colt, and he sat on it. 8 Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road ahead of him, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.9 Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around him were shouting,
“Praise God for the Son of David! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Praise God in highest heaven!”
10 The entire city of Jerusalem was in an uproar as he entered. “Who is this?” they asked.11 And the crowds replied, “It’s Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”
Jesus Clears the Temple
12 Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out all the people buying and selling animals for sacrifice. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the chairs of those selling doves.13 He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves!”14 The blind and the lame came to him in the Temple, and he healed them.15 The leading priests and the teachers of religious law saw these wonderful miracles and heard even the children in the Temple shouting, “Praise God for the Son of David.” But the leaders were indignant.16 They asked Jesus, “Do you hear what these children are saying?” “Yes,” Jesus replied. “Haven’t you ever read the Scriptures? For they say, ‘You have taught children and infants to give you praise.’”17 Then he returned to Bethany, where he stayed overnight.
Jesus Curses the Fig Tree
18 In the morning, as Jesus was returning to Jerusalem, he was hungry,19 and he noticed a fig tree beside the road. He went over to see if there were any figs, but there were only leaves. Then he said to it, “May you never bear fruit again!” And immediately the fig tree withered up.20 The disciples were amazed when they saw this and asked, “How did the fig tree wither so quickly?”21 Then Jesus told them, “I tell you the truth, if you have faith and don’t doubt, you can do things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen.22 You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it.”
The Authority of Jesus Challenged
23 When Jesus returned to the Temple and began teaching, the leading priests and elders came up to him. They demanded, “By what authority are you doing all these things? Who gave you the right?”24 “I’ll tell you by what authority I do these things if you answer one question,” Jesus replied.25 “Did John’s authority to baptize come from heaven, or was it merely human?” They talked it over among themselves. “If we say it was from heaven, he will ask us why we didn’t believe John.26 But if we say it was merely human, we’ll be mobbed because the people believe John was a prophet.”27 So they finally replied, “We don’t know.” And Jesus responded, “Then I won’t tell you by what authority I do these things.
Parable of the Two Sons
28 “But what do you think about this? A man with two sons told the older boy, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’29 The son answered, ‘No, I won’t go,’ but later he changed his mind and went anyway.30 Then the father told the other son, ‘You go,’ and he said, ‘Yes, sir, I will.’ But he didn’t go.31 “Which of the two obeyed his father?” They replied, “The first.” Then Jesus explained his meaning: “I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do.32 For John the Baptist came and showed you the right way to live, but you didn’t believe him, while tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even when you saw this happening, you refused to believe him and repent of your sins.
Parable of the Evil Farmers
33 “Now listen to another story. A certain landowner planted a vineyard, built a wall around it, dug a pit for pressing out the grape juice, and built a lookout tower. Then he leased the vineyard to tenant farmers and moved to another country.34 At the time of the grape harvest, he sent his servants to collect his share of the crop.35 But the farmers grabbed his servants, beat one, killed one, and stoned another.36 So the landowner sent a larger group of his servants to collect for him, but the results were the same.37 “Finally, the owner sent his son, thinking, ‘Surely they will respect my son.’38 “But when the tenant farmers saw his son coming, they said to one another, ‘Here comes the heir to this estate. Come on, let’s kill him and get the estate for ourselves!’39 So they grabbed him, dragged him out of the vineyard, and murdered him.40 “When the owner of the vineyard returns,” Jesus asked, “what do you think he will do to those farmers?”41 The religious leaders replied, “He will put the wicked men to a horrible death and lease the vineyard to others who will give him his share of the crop after each harvest.”42 Then Jesus asked them, “Didn’t you ever read this in the Scriptures?‘The stone that the builders rejectedhas now become the cornerstone.This is the Lord’s doing,and it is wonderful to see.’43 I tell you, the Kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation that will produce the proper fruit.44 Anyone who stumbles over that stone will be broken to pieces, and it will crush anyone it falls on.”45 When the leading priests and Pharisees heard this parable, they realized he was telling the story against them—they were the wicked farmers.46 They wanted to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowds, who considered Jesus to be a prophet.
Matt 21:1-46 (NLT)
Jesus came riding on a colt which shows peaceful intentions. Jesus’ actions affirmed is Messianic royalty as well as His humility. We read in Revelation that when He comes again He will be riding on a white horse and it will not bring a time of peace.
The Rider on the White Horse
11 Then I saw heaven opened, and there was a white horse! Its rider is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. 12 His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems; and he has a name inscribed that no one knows but himself. 13 He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is called The Word of God. 14 And the armies of heaven, wearing fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. 15 From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron; he will tread the wine press of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. 16 On his robe and on his thigh he has a name inscribed, "King of kings and Lord of lords."
Rev 19:11-17 (NRSV)
Bethphage (Matt. 21:1) was a village in the vicinity of the Mount of Olives about a half a mile east of Jerusalem. The donkey was the mount of royalty in the biblical period (21:2). The Zechariah passage (21:5; cf. Zech. 9:9) concerned God's great offer of salvation and restoration for Israel. Jesus rode the young colt of a donkey in fulfillment of Zechariah's prophecy. Jesus came in a gentle manner, not as a warrior on a war horse. "Branches" (Matt. 21:8; cf. John 12:13) were associated with rejoicing (cf. Lev. 23:40), and later with expressions of triumph or victory (1 Macc. 13:51). The passage surrounding Psalm 118:26, quoted by the crowds in Matthew 21:9, also concerned God's restoration of Israel through his chosen messenger (cf. Ps. 118:22-29). "Praise God" (21:9), a Hebrew imperative, means "save now." The crowd identified Jesus as "the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee" (Matt. 21:10-11) .—Tyndale Concise Bible Commentary
Those that take Christ for their King, must lay their all under his feet. Hosanna signifies, Save now, we beseech thee! Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord! But of how little value is the applause of the people! The changing multitude join the cry of the day, whether it be Hosanna, or Crucify him. Multitudes often seem to approve the gospel, but few become consistent disciples. When Jesus was come into Jerusalem all the city was moved; some perhaps were moved with joy, who waited for the Consolation of Israel; others, of the Pharisees, were moved with envy. So various are the motions in the minds of men upon the approach of Christ's kingdom. —Matthew Henry Concise
In verse 8 we have one of the few places where the Gospel records that Jesus’ glory is recognized on earth. Jesus boldly rode as the King of peace, and the crowd gladly joined Him. But these same people would bow to a political pressure and desert him in just a few days. We should remain on guard against superficial acclaim for Christ.
Jesus clears the Temple for the second time. (John 2:13-17) Merchants and money changers are set up in the court of the Gentiles. It crowded out the Gentiles who had come up to the Temple to pray and worship. Any practice that interferes with worshipping God should be stopped. Here again we see the contrast between the pious Jewish leaders and the hearts of sinners who love and serve their God. Jesus said His house should be a house of prayer. Jesus goes on to teach from a parable about prayer.
The cursing of the fig tree was a lesson in the relationship between faith and prayer (21:21). Jesus demonstrated to his disciples the power that was available to them through prayer. The foliage on the fig tree indicated that there should have been some early, small figs, but there were none. Jesus judged the tree for its false profession and its unfruitfulness (cf. John 15:6). This was Jesus' only destructive miracle.—Tyndale Concise Bible Commentary
This cursing of the barren fig-tree represents the state of hypocrites in general, and so teaches us that Christ looks for the power of religion in those who profess it, and the savour of it from those that have the show of it. His just expectations from flourishing professors are often disappointed; he comes to many, seeking fruit, and finds leaves only. A false profession commonly withers in this world, and it is the effect of Christ's curse. The fig-tree that had no fruit, soon lost its leaves. This represents the state of the nation and people of the Jews in particular. Our Lord Jesus found among them nothing but leaves. And after they rejected Christ, blindness and hardness grew upon them, till they were undone, and their place and nation rooted up. The Lord was righteous in it. Let us greatly fear the doom denounced on the barren fig-tree. —Matthew Henry Concise
How is your prayer life? Would you describe your life as a life lived by faith, a life lived in prayer? Prayer is powerful, and is a hallmark for the Christian. Ask God how your prayer life is and then spend some time talking to Him about it.
We are to have a proper attitude and position. We are to believe, be humble, have faith, have compassion and be a servant. How are you demonstrating that in your life? Does it come from a right heart attitude or because it is just the right thing to do?
Jesus warns the religious leaders that the kingdom will be taken from them because they did not recognize their Messiah. He has just taught through two parables that because of rejection of the Messiah, because of unbelief, because of not doing the Father’s will, they will perish. This is a warning for us too. Jesus was revealing what the heart was of the religious leaders. He exposed it and used it to try to get them to see the error of their ways. In trying to reach us with His love, God finally had to send His own Son. Jesus’ perfect life, His words of truth, His sacrifice of love are meant to cause us to listen to Him and to follow Him as Lord. If we ignore God’s gracious gift we reject God Himself.