What does Matthew 20:16 mean?

Explanation

The verse Matthew 20:16 is the concluding remark of Jesus after He tells the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard. In this parable, workers are hired at different times of the day to work in a vineyard.

However, at the end of the day, they are all paid the same wage regardless of the amount of time they worked. The landowner's actions reflect the generosity and sovereignty of God in offering salvation.

The saying "So the last shall be first, and the first last" upends conventional notions of fairness and reward.

It suggests that in the Kingdom of Heaven, traditional hierarchies and expectations are overturned.

The statement "for many be called, but few chosen" indicates that while God's invitation to salvation (the call) is extended to many, only a select group (the chosen) will actually respond and receive the fullness of God's promise.

Historical Context

This verse is from the Gospel of Matthew, which is believed to have been written between 70 and 110 AD.

Matthew's audience was primarily Jewish Christians, and his Gospel often reflects concerns related to this community, such as the fulfillment of Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament prophecy) and the relationship between Jewish law and Christian teachings.

During that time, there were conflicts between early Jewish Christians who had different opinions on adhering to Jewish law and Gentile converts who were not bound by such laws.

The parable can be seen as addressing these tensions by suggesting that the lastcomers to faith (the Gentiles) will be equals to those who have been part of God's chosen people longer (the Jews).

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse speaks to the grace of God and the concept of predestination.

Different denominations interpret this differently.

For instance, Calvinists use this to support their belief in unconditional election, suggesting that God has predestined the "chosen" from the "called." Arminians, on the other hand, see this as the need for human cooperation with God's grace, an invitation extended universally but only effective for those who respond affirmatively.

Additionally, some see this verse as an assertion of God's sovereignty and justice; while human perceptions of fairness are based on merit, God's grace is not given as a result of works but rather His generosity and love.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, Matthew 20:16 can encourage individuals to reassess their understanding of fairness and entitlement. It challenges people to be accepting of others receiving blessings and not to begrudge them, even if it seems like they have not "earned" it.

Additionally, it can inspire believers to be humble and serve God and others, without expectation of reward, understanding that in God's economy, the typical order of first and last may be reversed.

Cross-References

• Matthew 19:30 - "But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first."
• Mark 10:31 - "But many that are first shall be last; and the last first."
• Luke 13:30 - "And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last."

Language Study

The key phrase "called" translates from the Greek word "κλητοί" (klētoi), which means "invited" or "summoned." In contrast, "chosen" comes from "ἐκλεκτοί" (eklektoi), implying a selection or picking out from a larger group.

Studying these original words emphasizes the distinction between the wide-reaching invitation of God versus the smaller group that ultimately aligns with His purpose.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the cultural context of Judea during the time of Jesus, laborers depended on daily work for their sustenance; this parable would have been a relatable analogy for those hearing it.

It also aligns with the broader religious and cultural concept found in different traditions of the last becoming first, which is often associated with a reversal of fortune or status – a common motif in many spiritual teachings, aiming to dismantle societal expectations and honor humble service.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse may not directly correlate with scientific perspectives, it invokes discussions around behavioral science, particularly how humans perceive fairness and reward.

Modern psychology has explored how individuals react to scenarios where others are rewarded equally despite having contributed different levels of effort.

This research can reflect why the response of the workers in the parable aligns with common reactions to perceived injustices in reward scenarios.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse vary in focus and interpretation.

Some scholars, like John Calvin, have emphasized the sovereignty of God in choosing the elect. Others, such as William Barclay, highlight the generosity of God as a central theme.

Many agree that the parable and the verse serve to challenge prevailing notions of meritocracy and to emphasize the surprising and generous nature of God’s grace in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Several modern commentaries also discuss the inclusivity of the Gospel message and the universality of the invitation issued by God, while remaining prudent to not interpret the parable as advocating an equal outcome regardless of action or faith.