relationships (Matthew 21:28-32) What Makes the Difference?

(Matthew 21:28-32)

28 “But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, ‘Son, go work today in the vineyard.’ 29 But he replied, ‘I do not want to.’ Yet afterward he regretted it and went. 30 And the man came to his second son and said the same thing; and he replied, ‘I will, sir’; and yet he did not go. 31 Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I say to you that the tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the kingdom of God before you. 32 For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him; but the tax collectors and prostitutes did believe him; and you, seeing this, did not even have second thoughts afterward so as to believe him.

TODAY'S TAKEAWAY:

To openly refuse to do as one's father has asked was a punishable offense, but failing to do what the father has asked was worse, and even more so if one had promised to obey.  The latter scenario represents those people who are simply doing religion, thinking that it's all about what they do and say.  But in one's own efforts and strength, it is impossible to be perfectly obedient in God's eyes.  

By using tax gatherers and prostitutes in comparison with the pious spiritual leaders, Jesus could not have chosen a much more offensive set of examples.  Many people will be insulted and indignant in hearing all of this, and sadly, dismiss the good news and truth, that God comes to us, to do everything for us.  Even though we are all born with a sinful nature, even the most sinful person is invited to repent, to receive eternal life, and be part of God's family.

Therefore, to be righteous, one must become a believer.  When one humbly repents of their sins, they are forgiven, and covered with the righteousness of Jesus.  It is the righteousness of Jesus, and His indwelling Holy Spirit who changes us from the inside out, that makes it possible for us to strive in obedience, in God's will - not because we have to, but because we want to!  Christianity is all about having a personal connection and relationship with the Lord!  And He wants us to continue growing closer to Him, so that He can help us more and more, and bless us through our willingness to obey.