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ATTHEW 20:1-16 present a program
that may be hard for some of us to swallow. Jesus offered (as an explanation of
the kingdom) a parable about some laborers in a vineyard. Perhaps Jesus had
many things to teach with this parable, but the outstanding point is the amazing
generosity of the householder. The boss in this story must represent God. In
the kingdom of heaven there is a kind of generosity that is very special
indeed. To illustrate this point, the laborers (in this parable) who joined the
workforce last received an equal reward with those who labored the longest.
It should be easy for us to see a parallel with
this in the nature of the gospel. Some folk are saved as children, others in
old age. There are some who receive Christ and serve Him for many years. Then,
others receive Him just before they die.
Yet, all who come to Christ at His invitation are made children of the
kingdom. A macroeconomic interpretation is even more appropriate though. The
Jews had been called first to labor in God's fields. They were, after all, the
original recipients of the Law. Yet, the Gentiles were getting in on the good
grace of God. The Jews should have rejoiced in this, but instead they were
bitter (Matthew 20:11). Such is the depravity of the human heart. Rather than
rejoice in our brothers' blessings, we wickedly envy them and begrudge them
their prize.
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