Matthew 21:28

Authorized King James Version

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.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Τί
G5101
what
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#2
δὲ
G1161
But
but, and, etc
#3
ὑμῖν
G5213
ye
to (with or by) you
#4
δοκεῖ
G1380
think
compare the base of g1166) of the same meaning; to think; by implication, to seem (truthfully or uncertainly)
#5
ἄνθρωπος
G444
A certain man
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#6
εἶχεν
G2192
had
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#7
Τέκνον
G5043
Son
a child (as produced)
#8
δύο
G1417
two
"two"
#9
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
προσελθὼν
G4334
he came
to approach, i.e., (literally) come near, visit, or (figuratively) worship, assent to
#11
τῷ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
πρώτῳ
G4413
to the first
foremost (in time, place, order or importance)
#13
εἶπεν
G2036
and said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#14
Τέκνον
G5043
Son
a child (as produced)
#15
ὕπαγε
G5217
go
to lead (oneself) under, i.e., withdraw or retire (as if sinking out of sight), literally or figuratively
#16
σήμερον
G4594
to day
on the (i.e., this) day (or night current or just passed); generally, now (i.e., at present, hitherto)
#17
ἐργάζου
G2038
work
to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc
#18
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#19
τῷ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#20
ἀμπελῶνι
G290
vineyard
a vineyard
#21
μου
G3450
my
of me

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Matthew. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to gospel presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish Messianic hope, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of Jewish biographical literature presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Matthew Understanding a worldview expecting divine intervention through a promised Messiah helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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