New Testament

Matthew 20:7

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the workers who were hired later in the day explain to the landowner that they have not been employed by anyone.

Author: Matthew the apostle
Written: Around AD 60-70
Genre: Gospel
Original Audience: Jewish Christians

CBTClear Bible Translation

They answered, 'Because no one has hired us.' He told them, 'Go into the vineyard too, and you will receive whatever is right.'

KJVKing James Version

They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the workers who were hired later in the day explain to the landowner that they have not been employed by anyone. The landowner, representing God, invites them to work in his vineyard, assuring them that they will receive a fair wage. This reflects God's grace and generosity, as He offers opportunities to those who may feel overlooked or unworthy. The phrase 'whatever is right' emphasizes that God will reward according to His standards of justice and mercy, not human expectations. This moment illustrates the theme of inclusion and the idea that everyone has a place in God's kingdom, regardless of when they come to faith or how they have been treated by others. It challenges the notion of meritocracy, showing that God's grace is available to all, regardless of their past or the timing of their calling.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Matthew 20:7 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize that everyone has value and a purpose, regardless of their past or when they come to faith. We should be open to welcoming others into our communities and sharing opportunities, reflecting God's generosity in our actions.

Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Matthew 20:7 mean?

Matthew 20:7 shows the landowner inviting workers who were not hired earlier in the day to join him in the vineyard. This reflects God's grace, as He offers opportunities to those who may feel overlooked, assuring them they will receive a fair wage.

What is the meaning of 'whatever is right' in Matthew 20:7?

'Whatever is right' in Matthew 20:7 emphasizes that God rewards based on His standards of justice and mercy, rather than human expectations. It highlights the idea that God's grace is available to all, regardless of their circumstances.

How does Matthew 20:7 relate to fairness?

Matthew 20:7 relates to fairness by demonstrating that God's rewards are based on His understanding of justice, not human merit. It shows that everyone, regardless of their past or timing, is valued and can receive God's grace.

What themes are present in Matthew 20:7?

Key themes in Matthew 20:7 include grace, inclusion, fairness, divine justice, and opportunity. The verse highlights how God welcomes all individuals into His kingdom and assures them of a fair reward.

Book Summary

The Book of Matthew

Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ

The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

The birth of Jesus Christ is on this wise: His mother Mary is espoused to Joseph, but before they come together, she is found with child of the Holy Ghost. Joseph, being a just man and not willing to make her a publick example, is minded to put her away privily. But while he thinks on these things, an angel of the Lord appears to him in a dream, saying, Fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. The angel saith she shall bring forth a son, and Joseph shall call his name JESUS, for he shall save his people from their sins. Joseph, being raised from sleep, does as the angel had bidden him and takes unto him his wife, but knows her not till she has brought forth her firstborn son. Matthew 2: The Wise Men and the Flight to Egypt When Jesus is born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, there come wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. When Herod the king hears these things, he is troubled. He gathers the chief priests and scribes and demands of them where Christ should be born. They say unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea. Herod privily calls the wise men and sends them to Bethlehem to search for the young child, telling them to bring him word again, that he may come and worship him also. The star goes before them until it stands over where the young child is. They rejoice, and entering the house, they see the young child with Mary his mother, and fall down and worship him, presenting him with gifts. Being warned of God in a dream not to return to Herod, they depart into their own country another way.

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