Matthew 20:1

For. [Laborers in the Vineyard, Matt. 20:1-16. See on parables pp. 203-207.] The break between chs. 19:30 and 20:1 obscures the close relationship, both in time and in subject matter, between the two chapters. It was Jesus’ conversation with the rich young ruler (ch. 19:16-22) and His subsequent discussion with the disciples that led to the narration of the parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard. In fact, the parable specifically illustrates the truth stated in ch. 19:30, a truth that is repeated at the close of the parable by way of emphasis (ch. 20:16). This repetition immediately preceding and following the narration of the parable emphasizes the lesson the parable was designed to teach (see COL 390).

This parable was addressed to the disciples in response to their query, “What shall we have therefore?” (ch. 19:27). Inasmuch as they had “forsaken all” to follow Jesus, they anticipated a reward in compensation for their sacrifice. Of such a reward Jesus gave them assurance (vs. 28, 29), but with it coupled a warning to the effect that they need not think that merely because they had been first to follow Jesus they could therefore expect greater rewards and honors than other subjects of the kingdom were to receive. In the parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard Jesus sets forth the manner in which God deals with those who devote their service to Him and the basis on which they will be rewarded (see COL 396). The parable teaches that they will receive neither more nor less than others, for the citizens of the kingdom of heaven are all equal.

Kingdom of heaven. See on Matt. 3:2; 4:17; 5:2; Luke 4:19.

Is like. This was a common formula used to introduce a parable. For principles of parable interpretation see p. 204.

An householder. Gr. oikodespotes, that is, the “master of the house” (see on Luke 2:29). In this instance the “householder” is the owner (see Matt. 20:15).

Early in the morning. Gr. hama prof (see on Mark 1:35), at daylight.

To hire labourers. In Oriental lands day laborers still gather in the market places, where they await employment.

His vineyard. The prophet Isaiah had spoken of Israel as the Lord’s vineyard (see Isa. 5:1-7).