What does Matthew 21:31 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 21:31 recounts a dialogue between Jesus and the religious leaders where Jesus asks which of two sons did the will of their father; the first son initially refused but later went, while the second son agreed but did not go.

The leaders answer that it was the first son who did his father’s will.

Jesus uses their response to highlight that tax collectors and prostitutes, represented by the first son who repented, will enter the kingdom of God ahead of the self-righteous religious leaders, represented by the second son who was disobedient in the end.

The verse underscores themes of repentance, obedience, and the reversal of expectations regarding who is righteous in God's eyes.

Historical Context

The verse is situated within the context of Jesus' ministry in Jerusalem, shortly before his crucifixion.

He is engaged in a series of confrontations with the chief priests and elders who are questioning his authority.

The culture at the time placed great emphasis on social status and adherence to the law, and tax collectors and prostitutes were seen as sinners and outcasts.

The parable and Jesus’ subsequent commentary turn the cultural expectations of the time on their head, indicating that repentance is more important than social standing or external adherence to religious practices.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse is rich with significance.

From a Christian perspective, it illustrates the doctrine of grace, where God’s acceptance is not based on human merit but on repentance and faith. It critiques legalism, the idea that salvation can be earned through good works, and instead emphasizes the need for a transformed heart.

The verse is also seen as an indictment of hypocrisy in religious life, and a reminder that true obedience is in actions and not just words.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse can be applied in numerous ways.

It reminds individuals to avoid judging others based on their past or their social status and emphasizes the value of genuine transformation.

It encourages believers to examine their own lives for instances where they may say one thing yet do another, urging consistency in word and deed.

It also offers hope that no matter one's past, there is a place in God's kingdom for all who repent and seek to follow God’s will.

Cross-References

• Luke 18:13-14: "And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."

• Luke 15:10: "Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth."
• James 1:22: "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves."

Language Study

Understanding the original language nuances helps to deepen the insight into the text. The key term in this verse is "will" (Greek: θέλημα, thelēma), which refers to the desire or pleasure of someone, in this case, the father.

The phrase "did the will" places emphasis on action, rather than intention alone.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient cultures, including Jewish culture, honor and shame played significant roles in society.

To follow a father’s will was to honor him, and dishonoring one's parents was a grave matter.

In many ancient myths, the disobedient often face dire consequences.

In contrast, Jesus presents a God who is willing to accept those who have been dishonorable by societal standards if they repent, unlike many ancient deities that demanded strict adherence to laws and rituals.

Scientific Perspectives

There is no direct scientific correlation to the verse in question.

However, modern psychology explores concepts like cognitive dissonance and behavioral change, which can be tangentially related to the theme of saying one thing and doing another or changing one's mind and actions upon reflection, as seen in the example of the first son.

Commentaries

Biblical commentaries reflect on the significance of this passage in various ways:

• William Barclay notes the shock that Jesus’ message would have brought to the religious leaders, as it suggested that those they deemed as sinners could achieve salvation before them.
• John MacArthur emphasizes the importance of repentance and a true change of heart, as opposed to mere lip service.
• Matthew Henry sees this as a critique of the leaders of the church of his day, who, like the Pharisees, valued tradition and ceremony over genuine piety and righteousness.