What Is the Parable of the Two Sons?
What Is the Parable of the Two Sons? Jesus told of one son who refused to work but later obeyed, and another who agreed but never went—teaching that actions matter more than words.
Key verse: Matthew 21:31 (KJV)
Jesus told of one son who refused to work but later obeyed, and another who agreed but never went—teaching that actions matter more than words.
Jesus told of one son who refused to work but later obeyed, and another who agreed but never went—teaching that actions matter more than words.
"Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you." — Matthew 21:31 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
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The Biblical Answer
In Matthew 21:28-32, Jesus asked the chief priests about a father who told two sons to work in his vineyard. The first said 'I will not' but later repented and went. The second said 'I go, sir' but never went. Jesus asked which did the father's will, and they answered, 'The first.' Jesus then applied this to the religious leaders: tax collectors and sinners who repented at John's preaching were entering the kingdom before the outwardly religious who refused to truly repent. The parable teaches that God values genuine obedience over empty religious promises, and that true repentance always produces changed behavior.
Topic Overview
What Does the Bible Say About Hell?
What the Bible teaches about hell, eternal punishment, and the urgency of salvation.
Key Scripture References
"Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you."
"He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
What Does the Bible Say About Obedience to God?
The Bible teaches that obedience to God is the truest expression of love for Him and the pathway to blessing, while disobedience leads to discipline and separation.
Did Jesus Really Rise from the Dead?
The Bible presents the resurrection as historical fact, supported by eyewitness testimony, an empty tomb, and transformed lives.
Is Jesus God?
Yes — the Bible teaches that Jesus is fully God and fully man, the second person of the Trinity.
What Is the Trinity?
The Trinity is the doctrine that God exists as three persons — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — in one divine being.
Who Is the Holy Spirit?
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity — fully God, who indwells, guides, and empowers believers.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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The Parable of the Two Sons
Matthew 21:31 • Stewardship & Responsibility
Parable of the Two Sons Quiz
I go, sir — and went not. A study in obedience and repentance.
Romans 8:38-39 Commentary
In-depth study • Inseparable Love of God
Read it in context
The answer above sits inside Matthew. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read Matthew on day 284 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
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