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I. THE IMPORTANT COMMAND ISSUED. The nature of the work to which the gospel calls. It is extensive, important, arduous, delightful, profitable. It may be divided into —

1. That which respects God.

2. That which regards ourselves.

3. That which concerns others.

II. THE HASTY REFUSAL GIVEN. "I will not."

1. The natural aversion of the heart.

2. The sinful love of ease.

3. Their occupation in other pursuits.

III. THE WISE RETRACTION MADE.

1. The change stated

(1)  Its nature, "He repented."

(2)  Its fruit, "And went."

(3)  Its period. "Afterward."

2. The wisdom it evinces. It is wise to retract: refusal is

(1)  Against your best interests.

(2)  Betrays the greatest ingratitude to God.

(3)  Issues in eternal ruin.Address —

1. Those who have complied with the command.

2. Those who are refusing.

3. Those who have complied only in profession.

(E. Temple)

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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.'