Two Sons
Promises made and not kept
In Matthew 21:28-32, Jesus tells a parable about two sons asked by their father to work in the vineyard. The first son initially refuses but later obeys, while the second son agrees to go but does not follow through. Jesus uses this story to illustrate that actions are more important than words or promises. He emphasizes that those who may initially seem disobedient but repent and do God's will are entering the Kingdom of God before those who merely claim obedience without true commitment. This passage underscores the importance of genuine repentance and living out one’s faith through obedience to God's purposes.
(ai summarized)
“What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ And he answered, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he changed his mind and went. And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, ‘I go, sir,’ but did not go. Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes go into the kingdom of God before you. For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him. And even when you saw it, you did not afterward change your minds and believe him.”