Charles Spurgeon Commentary Matthew 21:28-29

"But what think ye? A man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to-day in the vineyard. And he answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented himself, and went." — Matthew 21:28-29 (ASV)

By two parables the Lord Jesus deals with the religious leaders who had opposed Him.

In the first parable, that of the two sons, He exposes their fair but false dealings with God. A certain man had two sons. Both were bound to serve upon the family estate and ought to have felt it a pleasure to do so. The first son was willful and wayward, but he was truthful, outspoken, and above-board in all that he did. His father said to him, Son, go work today in my vineyard. A command which contains the father’s claim, the son’s duty, the immediate character of that duty, and the sphere of it.

The command was plain enough and so was the reply, He answered and said, I will not. It was rude, rebellious, ungrateful, unfilial, but it was hasty and when a little interval had elapsed, quiet reflection brought the wayward boy to a better mind. Afterward he repented, and went. This was true repentance, for it led to practical obedience. He did not offer a verbal apology or make a promise of future good behavior. He did far better, for he went about his father’s business without more ado.

Oh, that many, who have until now refused to obey the Gospel, might now be changed in mind, listen to the voice of God and enter His service!