Matthew 20:1

For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man [that is] an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.

For {G1063} the kingdom {G932} of heaven {G3772} is {G2076} like {G3664} unto a man {G444} that is an householder {G3617}, which {G3748} went out {G1831} early in the morning {G260}{G4404} to hire {G3409} labourers {G2040} into {G1519} his {G846} vineyard {G290}.

"The Kingdom of Heaven is like a farmer who went out at daybreak to hire workers for his vineyard.

“For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard.

For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that was a householder, who went out early in the morning to hire laborers into his vineyard.

Commentary

Matthew 20:1 introduces the well-known Parable of the Labourers in the Vineyard. This verse sets the scene, likening the 'Kingdom of heaven'—a central theme in Matthew's Gospel—to a landowner (householder) hiring workers for his vineyard throughout the day.

Context

This parable immediately follows Jesus' interaction with the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16-22) and Peter's question about what the disciples who have left everything will receive (Matthew 19:27). Jesus assures them of great reward and then states, "But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first" (Matthew 19:30). The parable in chapter 20 serves as an illustration of this principle, particularly regarding the nature of God's grace and reward in the kingdom.

Key Themes

  • The Kingdom of Heaven: The parable is a description of how God's rule operates, challenging human expectations of fairness based on merit.
  • God's Sovereignty and Generosity: The householder represents God, who has the absolute right to dispense his blessings and rewards as he sees fit. His generosity is a key focus.
  • Calling to Service: The labourers represent those called by God to serve in His kingdom at different points in their lives.
  • Grace vs. Works: The parable highlights that salvation and reward in God's kingdom are ultimately based on His gracious calling and promise, not solely on the duration or amount of human effort.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Kingdom of heaven" (Greek: basileia tōn ouranōn) is used exclusively in Matthew's Gospel, emphasizing God's present and future reign. The term "householder" (Greek: oikodespotēs) signifies the master of the house or landowner, clearly depicting God's ownership and authority over His vineyard (representing His people or work).

Reflection

This opening verse sets the stage for a parable that can be challenging to our human sense of fairness. It immediately confronts our tendency to measure worth and reward based on time served or effort expended. By portraying the kingdom as being "like unto" this householder's actions, Jesus prepares listeners to understand that God's grace is the primary basis for His dealings with humanity, not a system of payment based on merit or duration of service. It encourages humility and trust in God's good and generous nature, rather than comparing our service or reward to others.

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Cross-References

  • Matthew 13:24 (8 votes)

    ¶ Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:

  • Matthew 13:47 (8 votes)

    Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:

  • Song Of Solomon 8:11 (6 votes)

    Solomon had a vineyard at Baalhamon; he let out the vineyard unto keepers; every one for the fruit thereof was to bring a thousand [pieces] of silver.

  • Song Of Solomon 8:12 (6 votes)

    My vineyard, which [is] mine, [is] before me: thou, O Solomon, [must have] a thousand, and those that keep the fruit thereof two hundred.

  • Matthew 13:44 (5 votes)

    Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.

  • Matthew 13:45 (5 votes)

    Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:

  • John 15:1 (5 votes)

    I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.