Devine Scripture

Matthew 21:30

What does Matthew 21:30 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 21:30 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 21:30 means

The father then approached the second son with an identical request to work in the vineyard. This son, in contrast to his brother, outwardly agreed immediately, saying, "I go, sir." Yet, despite his verbal assent, he ultimately did not go. This son represents those who profess faith or promise obedience but fail to follow through with their actions, revealing a superficial commitment.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And he came to the second and said the same. And he made answer and said, I go, sir: and went not.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

`And having come to the second, he said in the same manner, and he answering said, I <FI>go<Fi> , sir, and went not;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And coming to the other, he said in like manner. And he answering said: I go, Sir. And he went not.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And coming to the second he said likewise; and he answering said, I [go], sir, and went not.

Context

This verse presents the second son's response to his father's command, directly contrasting with the first son's actions. It immediately follows the description of the first son's repentance and obedience, setting up the critical question of which son truly did the father's will. This contrast highlights the theme of outward profession versus genuine action, crucial for understanding the parable's meaning.

v.29And he answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented himself, and went.

v.30This passage

v.31Which of the two did the will of his father? They say, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, that the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Ezekiel 33:31

    And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy words, but do them not; for with their mouth they show much love, but their heart goeth after their gain.

  • Romans 2:17

    But if thou bearest the name of a Jew, and restest upon the law, and gloriest in God,

  • Titus 1:16

    They profess that they know God; but by their works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

  • Matthew 23:3

    all things therefore whatsoever they bid you, these do and observe: but do not ye after their works; for they say, and do not.

Related questions readers ask

Keep reading

Want to dig deeper? Explore Matthew 21

Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Matthew 21.

Keep exploring

Follow this verse across Scripture

Topics, devotionals, original-language word studies, and figures connected to Matthew 21:30.

Browse every hub

BibleTopicsBible answersDevotionalsFamous passagesWord studiesPeoplePlacesVerses for…Reading plansCommentary