New Testament
Matthew 20:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
After agreeing with the laborers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard.
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And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard.
What Matthew 20:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a landowner makes a deal with some workers, agreeing to pay them a penny for a day's work in his vineyard. This arrangement highlights the importance of clear agreements in work relationships. The penny symbolizes a fair wage for the laborers, reflecting the landowner's commitment to honor his word. The vineyard represents a place of productivity and growth, where the workers will contribute their efforts. This scenario sets the stage for a parable about generosity and fairness, as the story unfolds to reveal how the landowner treats all workers, regardless of when they start. The agreement signifies the value of labor and the expectations set by both parties. It also raises questions about equity and justice in compensation, which will be explored further in the parable. Overall, this verse introduces themes of work, reward, and the nature of God's kingdom, inviting readers to reflect on their own understanding of fairness and grace.
How to apply Matthew 20:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to honor our commitments in work and relationships. It reminds us to ensure that agreements are clear and fair, fostering trust and respect. As we engage in our daily tasks, we should also reflect on how we treat others and the fairness of our actions.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 20:2 mean?
Matthew 20:2 describes a landowner who agrees to pay his workers a penny for a day's labor in his vineyard. This verse emphasizes the importance of clear agreements in work relationships and sets the stage for a parable about fairness and generosity.
What is the significance of the penny in Matthew 20:2?
In Matthew 20:2, the penny symbolizes a fair wage for the laborers, representing the landowner's commitment to honor his agreement. It highlights the value of labor and the expectations set between the employer and employees.
How does Matthew 20:2 relate to fairness in work?
Matthew 20:2 illustrates the importance of fair agreements in work settings. The landowner's promise of a penny for a day's work raises questions about equity and justice in compensation, which are explored further in the parable.
What themes are present in Matthew 20:2?
Matthew 20:2 presents themes of labor, agreement, fair wages, and the dynamics of work ethics. It also introduces concepts of generosity and justice, setting the foundation for a deeper exploration of these ideas in the parable.
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