In Matthew 21:23-27, the Pharisees were questioning Christ’s authority. Instead of answering their questions, He asked them a question.
But they wouldn’t answer because there was no way they could answer it without revealing their ungodly agenda to discredit Christ.
Immediately after this, Jesus shared a story about true faith and fake outward faith (Matthew 21:28-32).
In this story, the father asked his two sons to work for him in his vineyard. The first son said he wouldn’t do it, but later changed his mind and did it. The second son said he would do it, but he didn’t follow through.
Jesus compared the first son to the tax collectors and prostitutes who turned from their sin and followed Jesus. And He compared the second son to the Pharisees who claimed to serve God but actually served themselves.
The first son symbolized genuine repentance which involves a change of mind and purpose.
The second son symbolized those who say the right things but don’t really mean it.
We can all have a bit of the second son in us if we aren't careful. Let's make sure our faith is more than words.
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For more insights, read the one-minute devotion Hypocrisy.
And be sure to check out the Wisdom for Life devotional: 100 one-minute devotions based on Psalms and Proverbs.
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