The Parable of the Two Sons
W. Jay., R. Winter, D. D. Matthew 21:28-32 But what think you? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard.… I. AS HOLDING FORTH THE COMMAND OF GOD TO HIS CREATURES. His command is distinguished by three characters. 1. It is affectionate, "My son." 2. It is practical, "Work." 3. It is urgent, "To-day." II. THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS REGARDED. 1. One proves better than he promises. 2. One promises better than he proves. Are you saying, "I will not "? What nonsense, what madness! Are you saying, "I go, sir." Beware of insincerity. (W. Jay.) I. THE MANNER OF THE ADDRESS. 1. It denotes authority. 2. It is the voice of affection. II. THE GENERAL REQUISITION WHICH IS MADE — "GO work." 1. There are difficulties which must be conquered. 2. There are duties which must be performed. 3. The great design of heaven cannot be accomplished without labour. III. THE SCENE ALLOTTED FOR LABOUR. 1. YOU are to be regulated in all your labours by your Father's revealed will. 2. Cultivation is suggested by the text. IV. THE PROMPTITUDE OF ATTENTION IS REQUIRED. 1. GO work today. 2. To-morrow may be too late. 3. The responsibility which is attached to the use of present advantages. 4. There is a great danger of losing religious impressions. 5. What effect has the command in the text produced upon you? 6. Encouragement to labour. 7. You will not be left to yourselves. (R. Winter, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard. WEB: But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first, and said, 'Son, go work today in my vineyard.'