New Testament
Matthew 21:30
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, a father approaches his second son and asks him to work in the vineyard.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Then the father went to the second son and said the same thing. He answered, 'Sure, sir, I'll go' — but he never went.
And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

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.
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