The Parable of the Two Sons is a teaching of Jesus found in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in Matthew 21:28-32. This parable is part of a series of teachings that Jesus delivered in the temple courts in Jerusalem, addressing the religious leaders of His time. It is a profound illustration of obedience, repentance, and the true nature of righteousness in the eyes of God.

Context and Setting

The parable is set within the broader context of Jesus' final week before His crucifixion. After His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, Jesus cleanses the temple and begins teaching there. The chief priests and elders question His authority, prompting Jesus to respond with a series of parables, including the Parable of the Two Sons. This parable serves as a direct challenge to the religious leaders, highlighting their failure to recognize and respond to God's call.

Text of the Parable

The parable is as follows:

"But what do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ ‘I will not,’ he replied. But later he changed his mind and went. Then the man went to the second son and told him the same thing. ‘I will, sir,’ he said. But he did not go. Which of the two did the will of his father?” “The first,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him." (Matthew 21:28-32)

Interpretation and Themes

1. Obedience and Repentance: The parable contrasts two responses to the father's command. The first son initially refuses but later repents and obeys. The second son agrees to go but fails to follow through. This highlights the importance of actions over mere words. True obedience to God is demonstrated through repentance and action, not just verbal assent.

2. Condemnation of Hypocrisy: Jesus uses this parable to expose the hypocrisy of the religious leaders. They professed to follow God but failed to recognize and respond to His messengers, such as John the Baptist. In contrast, those considered sinners, like tax collectors and prostitutes, repented and believed, thus entering the kingdom of God.

3. Reversal of Expectations: The parable underscores a common theme in Jesus' teachings: the reversal of societal and religious expectations. Those deemed unworthy by the religious elite are the ones who truly respond to God's call, while those who consider themselves righteous are found lacking.

4. Authority of Jesus: By telling this parable, Jesus asserts His authority to judge the hearts and actions of individuals. He challenges the religious leaders to examine their own lives and recognize their need for repentance.

5. Kingdom of God: The parable emphasizes that entry into the kingdom of God is based on genuine repentance and faith, not on social status or religious affiliation. It serves as a reminder that God's grace is available to all who turn to Him in humility and obedience.

Application

The Parable of the Two Sons calls believers to examine their own lives in light of their response to God's commands. It challenges individuals to move beyond mere lip service and to live out their faith through genuine repentance and obedience. The parable also serves as a warning against self-righteousness and a reminder of the inclusivity of God's kingdom, which welcomes all who turn to Him with a repentant heart.