Bible Discussion Thread

Matthew 20:1-16 Parable of the man hiring for labor in the field; more precisely a vineyard. The explanation is given elsewhere that this was not a penny but a denarius which was apparently a generous offer for this work. Therefore as is stated in verse 15 God could be generous even more so for those who did much shorter labor in the fields. Briefly reading commentaries on this basically states that this doesn't mean that heavenly rewards based on individual service doesn't vary but that the great reward of heaven itself is to all who are truly in the faith. Verse 16 gives the statement that many are called but few are chosen. I haven't seen any good explanations of why that is at the end of this parable but it is repeated in Matthew 22 where we see many reject the wedding feast making excuses. It may make us consider if many of those who are "standing around" as the Matthew 20 parable seems to indicate repeatedly could remain that way by and large because they just don't think it is worth it laboring for the Gospel. It also could indicate; as a more frightening possibility that may laboring in the fields aren't truly saved and are trying to gain favor through acts of self righteousness. We don't curry favor or reward on our terms; and since God is the source of all our strength and holiness and we can't do anything apart from Him.

Matthew 20:17-28 begins with Christ once again predicting His death (verses 17-19). Verses 20-23 show Zebedee's sons with their mother requesting that they sit on the right and left of Him in heaven. It is indicated that it is up to the Father and that they must drink of the cup Jesus does which for James meant martyrdom and John from tradition attempted martyrdom. The others were offended at the request but He reminded them service to God was what brought greatness; and surely all the Apostles lived that way (except for Judas Iscariot who was replaced). The chapter ends with 2 blind men being healed.