The Parable of the Two Sons

Matthew 21:28-32

Key verse 21:28

 "What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work today in the vineyard.'

Who does the father in Jesus’ parable represent?  Who do the two sons represent (23; 31b)?  Who does the father represent?  What does the command, “go and work today in my vineyard say about God’s purpose for his people?  

 Read verse 29-31a.  How did the two sons respond differently to their father’s command?  What can we learn about the attitude of each of them (26; 32)?  Which son pleased his father?  How can we please God?  

 Read verses 31b-32.  Why is it surprising the prostitutes and tax collectors were entering the kingdom of heaven ahead of the religious leaders?  How were they able to do so?  What important repentance topic can we find in verse 32?  What does it mean practically to believe in John’s message about Jesus and to repent (28-29)?