New Testament
Matthew 21:30
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then the father went to the second son and said the same thing. He answered, 'Sure, sir, I'll go' — but he never went.
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And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.
What Matthew 21:30 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a father approaches his second son and asks him to work in the vineyard. The son responds positively, saying he will go, but ultimately does not follow through with his promise. This scenario illustrates the difference between words and actions. The son’s initial agreement is meaningless if he does not act on it. This parable emphasizes the importance of genuine obedience over mere verbal commitment. It serves as a reminder that saying the right things is not enough; true faith and obedience are demonstrated through actions. The context of this parable is a critique of those who profess faith but do not live it out, highlighting the need for integrity in our commitments to God and others.
How to apply Matthew 21:30 to your life
This verse challenges us to reflect on our own commitments. Are we like the son who says he will do something but fails to act? It encourages us to align our words with our actions, ensuring that we follow through on our promises, especially in our relationship with God and others.
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 21:30 mean?
Matthew 21:30 describes a father asking his second son to work in the vineyard. The son agrees to go but ultimately does not follow through, illustrating the gap between words and actions.
What is the meaning of the father's request in Matthew 21:30?
The father's request symbolizes God's call for obedience. The son's initial agreement represents empty promises, highlighting the importance of actually following through on commitments.
What lesson can we learn from Matthew 21:30?
The lesson from Matthew 21:30 is about the importance of aligning our actions with our words. It teaches that true obedience is demonstrated through actions, not just verbal commitments.
How does Matthew 21:30 relate to hypocrisy?
Matthew 21:30 highlights hypocrisy by showing that saying one will do something without acting on it is meaningless. It serves as a reminder to be genuine in our commitments.
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