This passage contains the parable know as “the Parable of the Labourers in the Vineyard”. There is much to follow in the life of Jesus. He crossed barriers of race, religion and gender. There is much to admire in the life of Christ. What is in it for us? Matthew 19:27. Why does Jesus speak in parables? It has nothing to do with human understanding. It is the secret things of God that is entrusted to those who believe and follow Him. God wants to know if he can entrust himself to you? There are many who heard but the interpretation was given only to a few. The rich man didn’t get it. Jesus was more precious than money.

1. Comparing

Beware of people-watching. See Matthew 20:1-9. We can start to look at each other. We compare ourselves with others. What is more important? What you can get or what you can give? We need to wait on the Lord and not look at people’s motives to serve God.

2 – Coveting

Beware of the green-eyed monster. See Matthew 20:10. The problem came at pay day. When it came to recognition and awards it suddenly became a problem.

• Jealous for – This is godly. God is jealous for and we can be jealous for people and wish their best.
• Jealous of – This is evil. We are in dangerous territory. It is the jaundice of the soul.

They are co-labourers and not competitors.

3 – Complaining

Beware of grumbling. See Matthew 20:11-12. They complain to the landowner. Do we complain to God that He is being unfair? God had agreed a payment and they had accepted the terms. He has done nothing unfair.

4 – Service or surrender?

The Lord gets to the heart of our motives. Do we serve God for what we can get or for what we can give? God wants surrender. The reward comes from serving others with God first in our lives. The reward we get is God in our lives.

Categories: Matthew