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Matthew 20:16
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Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
So the last shall be first, and the first last--that is, "Take heed lest by indulging the spirit of these murmurers at the penny given to the last hired, ye miss your own penny, though first in the vineyard; while the consciousness of having come in so late may inspire these last with such a humble frame, and such admiration of the grace that has hired and rewarded them at all, as will put them into the foremost place in the end." for many be called, but few chosen--This is another of our Lord's terse and pregnant sayings, more than once uttered in different connections. (See Mat 19:30; Mat 22:14). The "calling" of which the New Testament almost invariably speaks is what divines call effectual calling, carrying with it a supernatural operation on the will to secure its consent. But that cannot be the meaning of it here; the "called" being emphatically distinguished from the "chosen." It can only mean here the "invited." And so the sense is, Many receive the invitations of the Gospel whom God has never "chosen to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth" (Th2 2:13). But what, it may be asked, has this to do with the subject of our parable? Probably this--to teach us that men who have wrought in Christ's service all their days may, by the spirit which they manifest at the last, make it too evident that, as between God and their own souls, they never were chosen workmen at all. Next: Matthew Chapter 21
John Gill Bible Commentary
And Jesus going up to Jerusalem,.... Which was situated (f) in the highest part of the land of Israel: the land of Israel, is said to be higher than any other land whatever; and the temple at Jerusalem, higher than any part of the land of Israel; wherefore Christ's going to Jerusalem, is expressed by going up to it. Whither he came either from the coasts of Judea, from beyond Jordan, Mat 19:1 where he had been some time healing diseases, disputing with the Pharisees, discoursing with the young ruler, and instructing his disciples; or from a country near to the wilderness, from a city called Ephraim, Joh 11:54 where he continued some time with his disciples, after the sanhedrim had took counsel to put him to death; for this was his last journey to Jerusalem. Took the twelve disciples apart in the way: into some private place, which lay near the road; for it seems that there were others that followed him, besides the twelve; when he was not willing they should hear what he had to say to them, concerning the issue of this, journey; lest either they should be discouraged and desert him, or it should be made public, and methods be used to prevent it: and said unto them; the disciples, whom he thought fit once more to remind of his sufferings and death, and to prepare them for the same; and though they would not so thoroughly understand all that he should say, yet when it was come to pass, they would remember it, and which would be of service to confirm their faith in him, as the true Messiah. See Gill on Mar 10:32. (f) T. Bab. Sanhedrim, fol. 87. 1.
Matthew 20:16
The Parable of the Workers
15Do I not have the right to do as I please with what is mine? Or are you envious because I am generous?’ 16So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Revelation) 09 Revelation 20 - the Millennium
By David Pawson8.2K1:10:37MAT 4:19MAT 6:33MAT 19:30MAT 20:16REV 20:1In this sermon, the speaker shares about his experiences preaching to prisoners for several hours at a time. He tells the prisoners that if they remain faithful to Jesus and overcome their current struggles, they will have the opportunity to be judges and apply justice to others in the future. The speaker also shares a remarkable transformation that has taken place in one wing of the prison, where every prisoner has become a Christian and now live in brotherhood as one community. The governor is amazed by this change and even the officers now seek permission to enter the prisoners' cells to have coffee and read the Bible with them.
Revival Series 5
By Leonard Ravenhill6.7K52:54RevivalMAT 6:33MAT 7:7MAT 9:37MAT 20:161CO 3:82CO 5:10REV 14:13In this sermon, the preacher discusses the downfall of those who have gained wealth and power through dishonest means. He emphasizes that their kingdom will eventually perish, while the kingdom of believers will thrive. The preacher also highlights the importance of focusing on the word of God and not drowning it out with excessive human words. He mentions the need for believers to lay up treasures in heaven through their works, as they will be rewarded accordingly. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the significance of prayer and the importance of seeking a deep relationship with God.
(Genesis) - Part 12
By Zac Poonen2.2K56:20NimrodGEN 10:1GEN 11:4GEN 11:27MAT 7:21MAT 20:16ACT 2:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the dangers of seeking personal glory and making a name for oneself. He warns against the desire to be recognized and praised, whether it be in the church or in one's own home. The preacher emphasizes the importance of humility and serving others, using Jesus as an example of an elder brother who did not boss others around. He also highlights the need to be aware of our own gifted areas, as they can become areas of temptation and pride. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God examines everything we do and that we should strive to align our actions with His commandments.
K-254 Latent Anti-Semitism (2 of 2)
By Art Katz1.9K37:26Anti-SemitismMAT 6:33MAT 9:27MAT 20:16ROM 9:1ROM 11:33In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the hardships and struggles that a couple faced in their early years, living in a small trailer with frost coming through their door. The speaker emphasizes that what the couple is today is a result of God's formation through those difficult times. The sermon then shifts to a discussion about the church's call to New York and whether it signifies the end of the times of the Gentiles. The speaker urges the church to focus on this call and understand its significance deeply. The sermon concludes with a plea for God's palpable mercy and a reminder that the church must be willing to suffer for the sake of Israel and God's glory.
What a Sinner Can Do to Be Saved
By Rolfe Barnard1.7K46:39MAT 20:16LUK 7:30JHN 5:39ACT 17:30ROM 3:23ROM 6:23EPH 2:8In this sermon, the preacher addresses the question of what a sinner can do to be saved. He refers to the verse from Matthew 20:16, where Jesus says that many are called but few are chosen. The preacher uses a parable from the same chapter to illustrate his point. He explains that when Adam sinned, humanity lost its righteous standing before God and incurred the penalty of God's law. The only hope for salvation is for sinners to repent, turn from their sinful ways, and depend on the righteousness of Christ. Additionally, the preacher emphasizes the importance of facing the facts of spiritual existence and considering one's conscience and knowledge of right and wrong. However, he does not guarantee that doing so will result in salvation, as that is ultimately God's work.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
The Nature of Jesus - Part 2
By Gayle Erwin1.0K55:30Nature Of JesusMAT 18:1MAT 20:16MAT 20:25MAT 23:1MRK 9:33In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about a man who was carrying ten boxes on top of a bus. Despite his exhaustion, the man was fixated on counting the boxes and watching people get off the bus. The speaker uses this story to illustrate the idea of traveling light and letting go of worldly distractions. He then references Matthew 18:1-5, where Jesus teaches that in order to enter the kingdom of heaven, one must become like a little child and humble themselves. The speaker emphasizes the importance of keeping our focus on Jesus and not getting distracted by other "lights" in our spiritual journey.
Salvation on Jesus' Terms
By Freddy Bafuka59952:58SalvationEXO 20:13MAT 19:16MAT 20:16MRK 10:19ROM 6:1ROM 13:9EPH 4:28In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of the young rich ruler from Matthew chapter 19. The young man approaches Jesus and asks what good thing he must do to obtain eternal life. Jesus tells him to obey the commandments, but the young man insists that he has already kept them. Jesus then challenges him to sell his possessions and give to the poor in order to have treasures in heaven. The young man becomes sad because he is unwilling to give up his wealth for eternal life. The preacher emphasizes the importance of surrendering our idols, whether they be money or ambitions, in order to follow Jesus and receive salvation.
Cd Gv507 Stl Team Meeting 15.1.1985
By George Verwer54300:00JDG 7:7PRO 18:21MAT 20:16ROM 12:2EPH 6:12JAS 3:61PE 3:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of constant preparation for preaching the word of God. He mentions that his whole life is dedicated to preparing for his next message, as he ministers almost every day. He shares that he gathers information from various sources such as tapes, books, and magazines, and uses them to feed and bless others. The speaker also mentions the importance of persevering prayer and tearing down the strongholds of the enemy, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians.
Matthew 20
By John Nelson Darby0Humility and ServiceDiscipleshipMAT 20:16MAT 20:28MRK 10:43John Nelson Darby emphasizes the importance of following Christ with the right motives, highlighting that true discipleship involves self-renunciation and a spirit of service. He explains that the rewards for following Christ are rooted in grace, and that even those who come late to the faith can be powerful testimonies of God's grace. Darby also discusses the humility of Christ, who, while deserving of glory, chose to serve and suffer for the sake of others. He encourages believers to adopt this same attitude of humility and service, reflecting the character of Christ. The sermon concludes with the acknowledgment of Christ's final journey to Jerusalem, where He is recognized as the Messiah despite being rejected.
The Missing Mark of Apostolic Ministry
By Keith Malcomson0MAT 10:40MAT 20:16LUK 10:16JHN 20:271CO 4:92CO 4:12EPH 5:1PHP 2:171PE 2:211PE 4:12Keith Malcomson emphasizes the importance of discerning true apostles from false ones in the Church, highlighting the need for the entire congregation to test those who claim to be apostles based on their qualities and qualifications, not just their titles. He points out that the primary mark of a true apostle is death to self, where they have surrendered their own desires, motives, and needs for the sake of God's work. Drawing from Paul's example, he explains that apostolic ministry involves enduring trials, persecution, and being a spectacle for all to see, ultimately leading to life in the Church through death to self.
The Certainty of Death
By Samuel Davies0ISA 3:10EZK 33:8MAT 20:161CO 6:92CO 11:2GAL 4:20GAL 5:19COL 3:5REV 21:8Samuel Davies preaches a powerful sermon on the certainty of death, emphasizing that all individuals, whether righteous or wicked, will face physical death. He highlights the distinction between the death of the wicked, filled with terror and eternal separation from God, and the death of the righteous, which leads to eternal life and joy in the presence of God. Davies urges the congregation to reflect on their own mortality, to seek salvation through repentance, faith in Jesus Christ, and a transformed life. He warns against self-deception and presumption, stressing the urgency of preparing for eternity.
Matthew 19
By John Nelson Darby0Sacrifice for ChristMarriageMAT 19:4MAT 19:12MAT 19:21MAT 19:26MAT 19:29MAT 20:16MRK 10:6LUK 18:16ROM 8:31PHP 4:13John Nelson Darby explores the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 19, emphasizing the divine principles governing marriage and the kingdom of heaven. He highlights the indissoluble nature of marriage as intended by God, contrasting it with the hardness of human hearts that led to the law's allowances. Darby also discusses the value of children in God's eyes and the challenges of wealth, illustrating that true devotion to Christ requires sacrifice and a rejection of worldly desires. He reassures that while it is impossible for man to achieve salvation through his own efforts, with God, all things are possible. The sermon concludes with the promise of rewards for those who renounce worldly possessions for the sake of following Jesus.
Homily 64 on Matthew
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 5:22MAT 8:11MAT 8:20MAT 20:1MAT 20:16MAT 20:27JHN 13:151CO 11:31GAL 1:15HEB 12:14John Chrysostom preaches on the importance of humility, diligence, and self-reflection in the Christian life. He emphasizes the need to focus on one's own virtues and good works rather than judging others, urging believers to emulate the examples of faithful individuals like Noah, Abraham, and Job. Chrysostom warns against envy, jealousy, and pride, highlighting the significance of almsgiving, righteousness, and obedience to God's commandments. He uses the parable of the laborers in the vineyard to illustrate God's mercy and the reward of those who turn to Him, regardless of when they come to faith.
The Jesus Family in Communist China - Part 4
By Dr. D. Vaughan Rees0GEN 29:11PSA 139:12DAN 3:17MAT 11:28MAT 20:16MRK 9:35JAS 5:16Dr. D. Vaughan Rees preaches about the remarkable incidents from the life of the Ye-Su Chia-ting, showcasing the power of faith, honesty, and transformation through encounters with Jesus. The testimonies include miraculous interventions in trials, conversions from opium addiction and idol worship, dreams guiding acts of kindness, and the impact of unwavering faith in the face of Communist opposition. These stories illustrate the unwavering dedication, sacrificial service, and profound spiritual experiences of the early Chinese Christians amidst challenging circumstances.
Matthew 20:1-16. the Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard.
By Favell Lee Mortimer01SA 12:24MAT 20:16MAT 22:14MAT 25:21LUK 18:9Favell Lee Mortimer delves into the parables shared by Jesus, emphasizing the profound truth that the last shall be first and the first last, revealing that many are called but few chosen. The parables illustrate that self-righteousness and pride can lead to disappointment and exclusion from God's kingdom, while true repentance and humility are valued by God above outward appearances of righteousness. The contrast between the attitudes of the self-righteous and the humble servants of God is highlighted, showing that those who serve the Lord with gratitude and humility are truly blessed, regardless of when they began their journey with Him.
Luke 13:23-30. Christ Describes the Misery of Those Who Shall Be Shut Out of His Kingdom.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0MAT 7:13MAT 8:11MAT 20:16MAT 21:31LUK 13:23LUK 13:26Favell Lee Mortimer delivers a sermon on the importance of seeking salvation earnestly and not being complacent. The Lord urges us to strive to enter through the narrow gate before it's too late, emphasizing the urgency of accepting His invitation. Those who reject God's call will face eternal separation, even if they had associations with the righteous. The anguish of being shut out of God's kingdom will be intensified by witnessing others, including Gentiles, welcomed in while they are excluded. Mortimer highlights the risk of missing out on salvation despite being raised in a Christian environment, contrasting it with the conversion of those from heathen backgrounds.
The Parable of the Vineyard Workers Matthew 20:1-16
By David Servant0MAT 19:29MAT 20:161CO 3:8David Servant preaches on the parable of the vineyard workers, emphasizing that God rewards us based on the opportunities He gives us, not just the amount of work we do. He highlights the importance of being faithful with the opportunities, big or small, that God presents to us, as He is perfectly fair in His rewards. The lesson is that our faithfulness in utilizing the opportunities God provides determines our reward in His kingdom, not just the quantity of our work.
Tenure
By Anton Bosch0MAT 20:16Anton Bosch preaches about the misconception of tenure in the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that length of service is not a determining factor for position, entrance into heaven, or special treatment. He highlights examples from the Bible where those who came late to faith surpassed long-time believers, illustrating that God's ways are not bound by human standards of justice. Bosch stresses the importance of endurance over tenure, urging Christians to remain faithful and dedicated until the end, using verses like Matthew 10:22 and Philippians 3:13-14 to emphasize the significance of pressing forward in faith.
Marks of a Saving Change
By William Guthrie0PRO 1:24MAT 20:16LUK 19:3LUK 23:39JHN 16:8ACT 16:14ROM 3:15ROM 6:14ROM 7:92CO 5:14William Guthrie preaches about the marks by which a person may know if they are in covenant with God and have a special interest in Christ. He discusses the preparatory work of the law, emphasizing its role in leading souls to the 'Spirit of adoption.' Guthrie highlights three main ways in which individuals are called to Christ: some from the womb, some in a sovereign gospel-way, and some graciously at the hour of death. He also delves into God's more ordinary way of calling sinners through a discernible work of the law and humiliation, leading to a gracious work of God's Spirit.
God Was Well-Pleased With Him
By Zac Poonen0MAT 3:17MAT 20:16ROM 15:31CO 4:5HEB 4:15Zac Poonen preaches on the secret of Jesus being approved by God, emphasizing that it was not based on His ministry success but on His faithful and sinless life for thirty years. Jesus was approved because He resisted temptation and never sought His own desires, pleasing the Father. Our character, specifically our attitude towards sin and self-centeredness, is what brings God's approval, not our external accomplishments. Both a world-traveling healer/preacher and a busy mother at home have equal opportunities to acquire God's approval, as it is based on our faithfulness in daily temptations.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
So the last shall be first, and the first last--that is, "Take heed lest by indulging the spirit of these murmurers at the penny given to the last hired, ye miss your own penny, though first in the vineyard; while the consciousness of having come in so late may inspire these last with such a humble frame, and such admiration of the grace that has hired and rewarded them at all, as will put them into the foremost place in the end." for many be called, but few chosen--This is another of our Lord's terse and pregnant sayings, more than once uttered in different connections. (See Mat 19:30; Mat 22:14). The "calling" of which the New Testament almost invariably speaks is what divines call effectual calling, carrying with it a supernatural operation on the will to secure its consent. But that cannot be the meaning of it here; the "called" being emphatically distinguished from the "chosen." It can only mean here the "invited." And so the sense is, Many receive the invitations of the Gospel whom God has never "chosen to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth" (Th2 2:13). But what, it may be asked, has this to do with the subject of our parable? Probably this--to teach us that men who have wrought in Christ's service all their days may, by the spirit which they manifest at the last, make it too evident that, as between God and their own souls, they never were chosen workmen at all. Next: Matthew Chapter 21
John Gill Bible Commentary
And Jesus going up to Jerusalem,.... Which was situated (f) in the highest part of the land of Israel: the land of Israel, is said to be higher than any other land whatever; and the temple at Jerusalem, higher than any part of the land of Israel; wherefore Christ's going to Jerusalem, is expressed by going up to it. Whither he came either from the coasts of Judea, from beyond Jordan, Mat 19:1 where he had been some time healing diseases, disputing with the Pharisees, discoursing with the young ruler, and instructing his disciples; or from a country near to the wilderness, from a city called Ephraim, Joh 11:54 where he continued some time with his disciples, after the sanhedrim had took counsel to put him to death; for this was his last journey to Jerusalem. Took the twelve disciples apart in the way: into some private place, which lay near the road; for it seems that there were others that followed him, besides the twelve; when he was not willing they should hear what he had to say to them, concerning the issue of this, journey; lest either they should be discouraged and desert him, or it should be made public, and methods be used to prevent it: and said unto them; the disciples, whom he thought fit once more to remind of his sufferings and death, and to prepare them for the same; and though they would not so thoroughly understand all that he should say, yet when it was come to pass, they would remember it, and which would be of service to confirm their faith in him, as the true Messiah. See Gill on Mar 10:32. (f) T. Bab. Sanhedrim, fol. 87. 1.