Rewards and the Kingdom

March 8, 2015

Summary

“… ’Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?’ So the last will be first and the first last.” V. 15

Jesus now teaches with a parable. He says “the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard.” The master agrees on a fair price for the laborers and they go to work. The master then goes on to hire more workers throughout the
day – even up to the point where there is only one hour of work remaining. The master decides to pay all workers the same wage – the wage he had agreed upon with the first workers. When one of the first workers complain, the master replies, “Friend, I am doing you no wrong … I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you.” In this parable, we’re reminded that the kingdom is not fair. Rather, God graciously rewards according to his generosity instead of our merit. Now, that is good news!


Bible References

  • Matthew 20:1 - 16
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