Sermon Handout
- Matthew 19:30
- Matthew 20:1-16
The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard – Matthew 19:30 / Matthew 20:1-16
BIBLICAL MEANING & SYMBOLISM
| Who/What | Symbolism/Meaning |
| The Vineyard | God’s Kingdom (Isaiah 5:1–7, Matthew 21:33–41) |
| The Landowner | God the Father |
| Laborers | Believers (disciples, both early and later followers) |
| Work Day | Earthly life or time of service |
| The Wage (Denarius) | Eternal life or salvation (Romans 6:23 — “the gift of God is eternal life”) |
| Different Hours | Different stages of life at which people come to faith |
| Evening (Time of Payment) | Judgment or end of life (Hebrews 9:27) |
| Friend | Gk. Hetairos – a casual companion. Probably the spokesperson for the 6am workers. |
Walking Points:
“The Last Will Be First, and the First Last” (Matt. 19:30 & 20:16)
- This theme bookends the parable and appears to be Jesus’ main point: (Matt. 19:30 and Matt. 20:16)
- Those who consider themselves “first” (religiously superior, long-time believers) might be humbled.
- The humble, the latecomers, the repentant sinners may be honored (Matthew 23:12).
Grace, Not Works, Is the reason we are saved!
All workers receive the same wage, though they worked different hours.
Salvation is a gift, not a wage earned.
Romans 6:23, Ephesians 2:8–9
Romans 4:3 – 5 (ESV) 3 For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.” 4 Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. 5And to the one who does not work but trusts him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness,
God saves at different stages of life
- Some accept the Lord early (like children raised in the faith); others come in middle age or even near death.
- 1 Samuel 1:22 – Samuel was saved as a very young boy. He’s a “6am worker”. (But with a better attitude)
- Luke 23:39–43 – The thief on the cross was saved in his final hours. He’s an “11th-hour” worker.
The parable of the workers in the vineyard confronts our human sense of fairness and insists that God’s grace is overflowing, generous, and undeserved—not bound by our expectations or merit. God’s grace calls for humility, gratitude, and a celebration of others’ salvation, no matter when or how they are saved.
Avoid envy; rejoice in others’ blessings. Luke 15, James 3:16
God’s grace is abundant and generous. Romans 9:15, Isaiah 55:7
Come to God at any hour— it’s never too late. 2 Peter 3:9, Luke 23:43
Don’t assume status because of early service; Stay humble. Matthew 19:30, Matthew 23:12
All who come to Jesus are equally valued in His kingdom. Galatians 3:28, Colossians 3:11
Monday Morning Moment -– “The Lord is patient… not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9