What is the meaning of the Parable of the Two Sons?

Answer

The Parable of the Two Sons is located in Matthew 21:28-32. The story revolves around a man with two sons whom he instructed to go work in the vineyard. The first son initially refused but later complied and went. The second son, on the other hand, initially agreed but ultimately disobeyed and declined to work in the vineyard. The son who ultimately carried out his father’s will was the first son because he eventually obeyed. Jesus then compares the first son to tax collectors and prostitutes—the marginalized individuals in Jewish society—because they believed in John the Baptist and embraced “the way of righteousness” (v. 32), despite their initial disobedience to the Law.

The crucial point for interpretation of the Parable of the Two Sons lies in identifying the audience to whom Jesus is addressing. To understand this, we must consider the broader context of this passage. Matthew chapter 21 commences with Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The primary objective of Matthew’s gospel is to present Jesus as the awaited Messiah. The crowd reacts by shouting Hosannas and praises to the King. Upon entering Jerusalem, the King’s initial action is to cleanse the temple (21:12-17). Subsequently, we witness Jesus cursing a fig tree (21:18-22). While this account may appear as a standalone narrative, Jesus was conveying a powerful symbolic message. The fig tree often symbolizes Israel (cf: Hosea 9:10;Joel 1:7). The fact that the fig tree had leaves but no fruit symbolizes Israel’s religious practices—having the appearance of spirituality without genuine substance. Although Israel exhibited the outward signs of activity, they lacked the inward fruit of repentance and obedience to God, which is why Jesus informs them that the prostitutes and tax collectors will enter the kingdom ahead of them (v. 31).

In MattheIn Matthew 21:23-27, the religious authorities—the chief priests and elders—question Jesus’ authority. Who is this Jesus who enters Jerusalem receiving the praises of the masses and drives the moneychangers out of the temple? The stage is set for the showdown. It is in this context that Jesus tells three parables—the Two Sons, the Tenants, and the Wedding Feast. Each of these parables is shared with the Jewish religious leaders, each demonstrating their rejection of Jesus, and each declaring judgment on Israel for their rejection of their Messiah. In the Parable of the Two Sons, the leaders of Israel are depicted as the second son who professed obedience but did not carry out the will of the father.