Mark 12:9

What then will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and kill those tenants, and will give the vineyard to others.

Study Bible

What then will the owner of the vineyard do?
This phrase sets the stage for a rhetorical question that Jesus poses to His audience. The "owner of the vineyard" represents God, who is the ultimate authority and judge. The vineyard is a common biblical metaphor for Israel, as seen in Isaiah 5:1-7. The question challenges the listeners to consider the consequences of their actions and the justice of God. The Greek word for "owner" (κύριος, kyrios) implies lordship and authority, emphasizing God's sovereign right to judge His people.

He will come
The phrase "He will come" signifies the certainty of God's intervention. In the context of the parable, it indicates that God will not remain passive in the face of injustice and rebellion. The Greek verb used here (ἔρχομαι, erchomai) is often associated with divine visitation, suggesting both judgment and the fulfillment of God's promises. This reflects the biblical theme of God's active involvement in the world and His ultimate plan for redemption.

and kill those tenants
The "tenants" symbolize the religious leaders of Israel who have failed in their stewardship of God's people. The act of "killing" them is a metaphor for divine judgment. This harsh imagery underscores the seriousness of rejecting God's messengers and, ultimately, His Son. The Greek word for "kill" (ἀποκτείνω, apokteinō) conveys the finality of judgment, reminding us of the consequences of persistent disobedience and rejection of God's authority.

and will give the vineyard to others
This phrase indicates a transfer of responsibility and blessing. The "others" refer to those who will be faithful stewards of God's kingdom, often interpreted as the inclusion of the Gentiles and the establishment of the Church. The Greek word for "give" (δίδωμι, didōmi) suggests a gracious act of entrustment, highlighting God's desire to see His purposes fulfilled through willing and obedient servants. This transfer is a pivotal moment in salvation history, emphasizing the openness of God's kingdom to all who believe.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Owner of the Vineyard
Represents God, who has entrusted His creation and His people to stewards.

2. Vineyard
Symbolizes Israel, God's chosen people, and by extension, the Kingdom of God.

3. Tenants
The religious leaders of Israel who were entrusted with the care of God's people but failed in their responsibilities.

4. Others
Represents the Gentiles and those who would come to inherit the Kingdom of God due to the failure of the original tenants.

5. Event
This is part of a parable Jesus tells to illustrate the rejection of the prophets and ultimately Himself by the Jewish leaders.

Teaching Points

Stewardship and Accountability
God entrusts us with responsibilities, and we are accountable for how we manage them. Just as the tenants were expected to produce fruit, we are called to bear spiritual fruit.

Rejection of God's Messengers
The parable highlights the danger of rejecting those whom God sends. We must be open to God's message, even when it challenges us.

Inclusivity of God's Kingdom
The transfer of the vineyard to others signifies the opening of God's Kingdom to all who believe, regardless of their background. This calls us to embrace and share the Gospel with everyone.

Judgment and Justice
God's justice is evident in the parable. While His patience is great, there is a time of reckoning for those who persist in rebellion.

Christ as the Cornerstone
Though not directly in this verse, the broader context of the parable points to Jesus as the cornerstone, rejected by the builders but chosen by God. Our faith must be built on Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the parable of the tenants challenge our understanding of stewardship in our personal lives and within the church?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are receptive to God's messengers today, and how can we discern their authenticity?

3. How does the inclusion of the Gentiles in God's plan of salvation encourage us to approach evangelism and outreach?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that we are producing spiritual fruit in our lives?

5. How does recognizing Jesus as the cornerstone influence our daily walk with Him and our interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 5:1-7
This passage describes Israel as a vineyard, which God cultivated but which produced bad fruit, setting the stage for Jesus' parable.

Matthew 21:33-46
A parallel account of the parable of the tenants, providing additional context and details.

Romans 11:11-24
Discusses the inclusion of the Gentiles into God's plan, akin to the vineyard being given to others.

Acts 13:46
Paul and Barnabas speak of turning to the Gentiles after the rejection by the Jewish leaders, echoing the theme of the vineyard being given to others.