Matthew 21:28
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.
Original Language Analysis
Τί
what
G5101
Τί
what
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
1 of 21
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
δοκεῖ
think
G1380
δοκεῖ
think
Strong's:
G1380
Word #:
4 of 21
compare the base of g1166) of the same meaning; to think; by implication, to seem (truthfully or uncertainly)
εἶχεν
had
G2192
εἶχεν
had
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
6 of 21
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
9 of 21
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
προσελθὼν
he came
G4334
προσελθὼν
he came
Strong's:
G4334
Word #:
10 of 21
to approach, i.e., (literally) come near, visit, or (figuratively) worship, assent to
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 21
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὕπαγε
go
G5217
ὕπαγε
go
Strong's:
G5217
Word #:
15 of 21
to lead (oneself) under, i.e., withdraw or retire (as if sinking out of sight), literally or figuratively
σήμερον
to day
G4594
σήμερον
to day
Strong's:
G4594
Word #:
16 of 21
on the (i.e., this) day (or night current or just passed); generally, now (i.e., at present, hitherto)
ἐργάζου
work
G2038
ἐργάζου
work
Strong's:
G2038
Word #:
17 of 21
to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc
Cross References
1 Corinthians 15:58Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.1 Corinthians 10:15I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.Matthew 20:1For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.Mark 13:34For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.Matthew 21:33Hear another parable: There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and digged a winepress in it, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country:Luke 13:4Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem?
Historical Context
This verse originates in Jesus' ministry during a pivotal period. The first-century Jewish context included Roman occupation, Pharisaic religious authority, and messianic expectations. Understanding these factors illuminates the passage's significance.
Questions for Reflection
- What does this text reveal about human nature and God's grace?
- How can you apply this teaching to current struggles or questions?
- What changes in thinking or behavior does this passage require?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
This verse reveals profound theological truth central to Reformed understanding of Scripture. The passage demonstrates God's sovereignty and grace working through human circumstances. Christ's teaching here challenges contemporary religious assumptions while pointing to deeper spiritual realities.