Commentary on Matthew 20:7

Verse Text: "They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive."

Introduction

In this passage, part of the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard, Jesus illustrates the grace of God and the nature of His Kingdom. It highlights themes of employment, reward, and the generosity of the Lord, drawing important lessons for pastors, students, theologians, and scholars alike.

Contextual Understanding

This parable follows the disciples' conversation with Jesus regarding rewards and positions in the Kingdom of Heaven. By placing it in this context, we gain a deeper understanding of the principles being addressed. Jesus uses the situation of laborers who are idle to communicate profound truths about grace and the Kingdom's economy.

Matthew Henry's Insight

Matthew Henry emphasizes the following points:

• The Generosity of God: Henry notes that the vineyard owner represents God, who is generous and gracious, inviting everyone to partake in His work.
• Human Inactivity: The idle laborers’ response reflects the human condition—often waiting for opportunities instead of proactively seeking God's work.
• The Call to Action: The owner's call to the laborers to go to the vineyard symbolizes God's persistent invitation to service, regardless of when one begins their journey of faith.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Barnes provides additional layers of understanding:

• Understanding Labor and Reward: He delves into the labor metaphor, explaining that all work in Christ's vineyard, regardless of duration, will receive appropriate reward based on divine justice and grace.
• Universal Call: Barnes notes how this invitation serves as a testament to God's desire to save all, including those who come late to faith, exemplifying the boundless nature of His mercy.
• Grace Not Based on Merit: The verse portrays the idea that rewards are not based on how long one has worked but rather on God's grace and goodness.

Adam Clarke's Reflection

Clarke elaborates on the implications of this passage:

• Significance of Being Hired: Clarke points out that the workers’ acknowledgment of not being hired represents the awareness of spiritual emptiness and the need for inclusion in God’s Kingdom.
• Results of Obedience: He emphasizes the command, “Go ye also into the vineyard,” as a directive that symbolizes obedience and readiness to engage in God’s work whenever called.
• Anticipation of Reward: The assertion “whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive” alludes to the assurance that God’s rewards are always fair and just, albeit sometimes unexpected.

Theological Implications

The theological implications of Matthew 20:7 are profound and multifaceted:

• Divine Sovereignty: The passage illustrates God’s sovereignty in the distribution of gifts and opportunities, reminding us that all are equal in His eyes.
• Grace Overworks: It serves as a lesson that salvation and rewards in God’s Kingdom are based on grace, rather than human effort, aligning with the overall Christian teaching of salvation by faith.
• Inclusivity of the Gospel: The call to the idle workers emphasizes the inclusive nature of the Gospel, affirming that all, irrespective of their past, are invited to participate in God's work and share in His rewards.

Practical Applications

For pastors and leaders, this verse offers several practical applications:

• Encouragement of Participation: Leaders should encourage their congregations to engage actively in the work of the ministry and remind them that it is never too late to join God’s service.
• Community Engagement: Churches should extend their outreach efforts, providing opportunities for those who feel 'idle' or excluded, showcasing the expansive love of God.
• Education on Grace: Teach about the nature of God’s grace—how it transcends our human expectations and merit, thereby fostering a spirit of humility and gratitude among believers.

Conclusion

Matthew 20:7 reveals significant truths about God's Kingdom, underscored by the parable’s context of grace and divine generosity. It serves as a reminder that God’s call to labor in His vineyard is always open, and the rewards are based on His righteousness rather than our efforts. With insights from respected commentators like Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, this passage invites deep reflection and inspires active participation in the unfolding story of God's grace.