The Two Sons

[!NOTE] Primary Scripture Reading: Matthew 21:28-32

I. Background of the parable

A. During the last week of Jesus’ life, the Jewish leaders challenged Jesus’ authority asking about its source.

B. Jesus asked them whether the baptism of John was of heaven or men.

C. If they answered, “Of men,” they would have had trouble with the multitudes who considered John the Baptist a prophet. If they answered, “Of heaven,” Jesus would challenge their rejection of John and his teaching. They chose not to answer and so Jesus said that He would not tell them the source of His authority.

D. Jesus followed His challenge with the Parable of the Two Sons

II. The first son

A. Initially rebelled but repented

B. Some initially respond to God with rebellion

C. Jesus compared the first son to tax collectors and harlots.

D. Respectable Jewish society looked down on the tax collectors

E. Matthew 9:11 – Jesus eating with tax collectors and sinners Matthew 18:17 – Let him be like a heathen and a tax collector Luke 7:29 – Even the tax collectors…Luke 18:11 – Pharisee’s prayer Many were extortioners and all were viewed as traitors. Harlots exemplify rebellion to God’s will and the shame that follows better than any group that Jesus could have identified.

F. Though initially rebellious, both groups repented of their wickedness at the teaching of John the Baptist.

III. The second son

A. The second son told his father, “I go,” but did not go

B. This son was obedient in his words but not his deeds

C. Jesus compared this son to the Jewish leaders

D. Luke 7:30 – They would not repent at the teaching of John the Baptist. Matthew 3:7-10 – They would not repent

IV. Which son best personifies you?

A. Do you resemble the second son who said, “I go,” but did not go?

B. How is Christ Lord if we do not obey Him?

C. Webster defines lord as one who has power or authority over others. If we call Jesus “Lord” but we do not do His commandments we rebel. Luke 6:46 – Why call Jesus Lord but disobey? Matthew 7:21 – Only the obedient please God.

D. The true rebellious son

E. The second son appeared obedient but was really rebellious. Some would never think of telling God, “I will not go,” but they are still rebellious if they do not do what God commands.

F. Areas of evaluation

G. In evangelism, do we tell God, “I go,” but do not teach the gospel? In service to others, do we tell God, “I will,” but do little or nothing? Matthew 18:15 – Do we say, “I go,” but do not reconcile with brethren? Old quote, “The devil does not mind if a person professes Christianity as long as he does not practice Christianity.”

H. Do you resemble the first son who said, “I will not go,” but repented and obeyed the will of the father?

I. Some would not be hypocritical or give lip service to God while disobedient.

J. Though criticized, their condition is better than that of the one who others considered obedient but is rebellious. The willfully rebellious has nothing to hide so when he repents, his change is obvious and genuine.

K. 1 Peter 2:24-25 – All have rebelled against God at some point in their lives.

L. Romans 5:8 – We were in rebellion when Jesus died for us Ephesians 2:1-6 – The disobedient who repent enjoy spiritual blessings Luke 15:1-7 – When the rebellious repent, there is joy in heaven

M. Which son best personifies you?

V. Conclusion: If you are in rebellion, you need to surrender to God. Though others may not know of your rebellion, God knows. However, He is willing to forgive you if you will repent and serve Him. Cast down your weapons of rebellion and submit to His rule. His way leads to life everlasting and the blood of Jesus will wash away the sins of your rebellion.