Commentary on Matthew 21:37

Bible Verse: Matthew 21:37: "But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son."

Introduction

This verse is situated in the parable of the wicked tenants, which illustrates the rejection of God's messengers and ultimately, His Son, Jesus Christ. The significance of this verse is immense, as it encapsulates the heart of God's redemptive plan and the profound response of humanity towards divine authority.

Contextual Background

In Matthew 21, Jesus addresses the religious leaders and the people of Israel through parables which reveal their spiritual failures. This particular verse underscores the tragic unfolding of God’s plan, where despite the rejection of many prophets sent to His people, God expresses His ultimate love by sending His Son, highlighting His mercy and patience.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the following points regarding Matthew 21:37:

• Divine Patience: Henry notes that the sending of the Son is a testament to God’s extraordinary patience. The repeated rejection of His prophets culminates in the sending of His beloved Son, demonstrating that God is willing to endure ongoing disobedience in hopes of repentance.
• The Dignity of the Son: He also reflects on the dignity of the Son, underscoring Jesus' unique role in God’s plan for redemption. The Son is not merely another servant but is equal to the Father, deserving reverence.
• Expectation of Reverence: Henry asserts that the anticipation that 'they will reverence my son' illustrates God’s longing for His creation to acknowledge His authority and sovereignty.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes provides additional insights worth noting:

• The Nature of the Message: Barnes elaborates on the purpose of sending His Son, highlighting that God’s message is one of love, emphasizing that the Son represents the fullness of God’s revelation.
• Human Rejection: He notes that despite the divine expectation, the tragic reality of human nature is to reject and mistreat God’s emissaries, culminating in the rejection of Christ Himself.
• Foreshadowing Events: Barnes also acknowledges that this verse foreshadows the events leading to the crucifixion, a direct result of the Son's lack of reverence from His chosen people.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke adds depth to the understanding of this verse with the following considerations:

• Symbolic Meaning: Clarke interprets the parable as a parallel to the historical relationship between God and Israel, where the vineyard symbolizes Israel, and the son represents Jesus as the legitimate heir.
• The Contrast of Rejection: He draws attention to the ironic contrast within the parable: while the tenants are expected to honor the son, they resort to violence instead, symbolizing the impending rejection of Christ by the religious leaders.
• Prophetic Fulfillment: Clarke points out that this act represents the culmination of numerous prophecies concerning the Messiah, emphasizing that God's plan was intricately woven throughout history.

Theological Reflection

The sending of the Son encapsulated in Matthew 21:37 is rich with theological implications:

• God’s Love and Justice: God’s decision to send His Son highlights the balance of love and justice—His mercy calls for recognition, while justice demands a reckoning for the rejection that is to come.
• Christological Significance: The verse serves as a foundation for understanding Christ's identity and mission—He is the culmination of God's efforts to restore humanity to Himself.
• Human Responsibility: The verse underscores human responsibility in recognizing and revering Christ. This leads to a deeper exploration of faith and obedience, challenging readers to consider their own response to Christ’s authority.

Practical Applications

For pastors, students, and theologians, understanding Matthew 21:37 encourages several practical applications:

• Encouraging Reverence for Christ: As leaders, the call is to foster a culture of reverence and honor for Jesus as the Son of God among congregants.
• Emphasizing God’s Patience: This verse invites discussions on God’s patience and love, urging believers to embody these traits in their interactions with others.
• Addressing Rejection: Pastoral care must also consider how to minister to those who feel alienated or rejected, providing an understanding of God’s persistent pursuit of His people.

Conclusion

Matthew 21:37 is a poignant reminder of God's enduring love and the tragic reality of rejection. The insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke enhance our understanding of this crucial moment in the biblical narrative. This verse serves as an invitation to reflect on our standing before God, urging each individual toward a heartfelt response to the Son and His rightful place in our lives.