What Is the Parable of the Two Sons — In Biblical Context
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)
The Biblical Context
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.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, Matthew 21:31, sits inside Matthew 21. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you."
Supporting Passages
"He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went."
Explore this question from another angle
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
What Are the Parables of Jesus?
Theology & Doctrine
What is the parable of the prodigal son?
Theology & Doctrine
What Is the Parable of the Talents?
Theology & Doctrine
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
Keep Going
Continue Exploring Scripture
You've found one resource — here are more ways to go deeper into God's Word.
Today's Verse
Start each day with a hand-picked KJV verse and reflection.
Verses by Topic
Find what the Bible says about love, anxiety, strength, and 500+ more topics.
Bible Miracles
Discover the signs and wonders of God recorded in Scripture.
Angels & Spiritual Warfare
Angels, demons, and the armor of God — what the KJV really teaches about the unseen battle.
Bible Genealogies & Family Trees
Visual KJV family trees — the line of Jesus, the sons of Noah, the twelve tribes, and more.
Women of the Bible
Eve, Sarah, Ruth, Esther, Mary — the matriarchs, prophetesses, queens, and disciples of Scripture.