Matthew 21:37
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 21:37
37 But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son.
Chapter Context
Matthew 21 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, creation, obedience. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-46: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 21:37
37 But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son.
Analysis
But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son—ὕστερον δὲ ἀπέστειλεν... τὸν υἱὸν αὐτοῦ (hysteron de apesteilen... ton huion autou)—'last of all he sent... his son.' This climaxes the escalation: after servants (prophets), the Son (Jesus). They will reverence (ἐντραπήσονται, entrapēsontai) means 'show respect, feel shame before.'
The vineyard owner's expectation seems naive given past treatment, yet reveals God's nature: He gave Israel every possible opportunity. Sending the Son wasn't desperation but grace—the ultimate self-revelation. The unique status of 'the son' versus 'servants' establishes Jesus's superiority to all prophets (Heb 1:1-2). No messenger remains after this one is rejected.
Historical Context
Jesus spoke this parable days before His crucifixion, predicting His own fate. The Jewish leaders understood He spoke of them (v.45) yet proceeded to fulfill the parable by killing the Son. Their self-aware rejection of the heir exposed maximal guilt—they knew who He was yet chose murder over repentance.
Reflection
- How does the Father's sending of the Son demonstrate both ultimate love (John 3:16) and ultimate seriousness in demanding fruit?
- What does it mean that no further messenger comes after Jesus—how does this urgency affect your response today?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Zephaniah 3:7