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Jesus said to them, Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/matthew/21-31.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/matthew/21-31.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/matthew/">Matthew</a> > <a href="/matthew/21.htm">Chapter 21</a> > Verse 31</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad11.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/matthew/21-30.htm" title="Matthew 21:30">◄</a> Matthew 21:31 <a href="/matthew/21-32.htm" title="Matthew 21:32">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/matthew/21.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/matthew/21.htm">New International Version</a> &#8220Which of the two did what his father wanted?&#8221 &#8220The first,&#8221 they answered. Jesus said to them, &#8220Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. <a href="/nlt/matthew/21.htm">New Living Translation</a> “Which of the two obeyed his father?” They replied, “The first.” Then Jesus explained his meaning: “I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do. <a href="/esv/matthew/21.htm">English Standard Version</a> 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. <a href="/bsb/matthew/21.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Which of the two did the will of his father?” “The first,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/blb/matthew/21.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Which of the two did the will of the father?" They say, "The first." Jesus says to them, "Truly I say to you that the tax collectors and the prostitutes go before you into the kingdom of God. <a href="/kjv/matthew/21.htm">King James Bible</a> Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/nkjv/matthew/21.htm">New King James Version</a> Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said to Him, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that tax collectors and harlots enter the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/nasb_/matthew/21.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I say to you that the tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/nasb/matthew/21.htm">NASB 1995</a> &#8220Which of the two did the will of his father?&#8221 They said, &#8220The first.&#8221 Jesus said to them, &#8220Truly I say to you that the tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/nasb77/matthew/21.htm">NASB 1977 </a> “Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The latter.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I say to you that the tax-gatherers and harlots will get into the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/lsb/matthew/21.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I say to you that the tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/amp/matthew/21.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Which of the two did the will of the father?” The chief priests and elders replied, “The first one.” Jesus said to them, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you that the tax collectors and the prostitutes will get into the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/csb/matthew/21.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Which of the two did his father’s will? ” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/hcsb/matthew/21.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> &#8220Which of the two did his father&#8217s will?"&#8221 The first,&#8221 they said. Jesus said to them, &#8220I assure you: Tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you! <a href="/asv/matthew/21.htm">American Standard Version</a> Which of the two did the will of his father? They say, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, that the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/cev/matthew/21.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Which one of the sons obeyed his father? "The older one," the chief priests and leaders answered. Then Jesus told them: You can be sure tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the kingdom of God before you ever will! <a href="/erv/matthew/21.htm">English Revised Version</a> Whether of the twain did the will of his father? They say, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, that the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/gwt/matthew/21.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> "Which of the two sons did what the father wanted?" "The first," they answered. Jesus said to them, "I can guarantee this truth: Tax collectors and prostitutes are going into the kingdom of God ahead of you. <a href="/gnt/matthew/21.htm">Good News Translation</a> Which one of the two did what his father wanted?" "The older one," they answered. So Jesus said to them, "I tell you: the tax collectors and the prostitutes are going into the Kingdom of God ahead of you. <a href="/isv/matthew/21.htm">International Standard Version</a> Which of the two did the father's will?" They answered, "The first one." Jesus told them, "I tell all of you with certainty, tax collectors and prostitutes will get into God's kingdom ahead of you! <a href="/msb/matthew/21.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Which of the two did the will of his father?? ?The first,? they answered. Jesus said to them, ?Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/net/matthew/21.htm">NET Bible</a> Which of the two did his father's will?" They said, "The first." Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth, tax collectors and prostitutes will go ahead of you into the kingdom of God! <a href="/nheb/matthew/21.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Which of the two did the will of his father?" They said, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Truly I tell you that the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering into the Kingdom of God before you. <a href="/wbt/matthew/21.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Which of the two did the will of his father? They say to him, The first. Jesus saith to them, Verily I say to you, that the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/wey/matthew/21.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Which of the two did as his father desired?" "The first," they said. "I solemnly tell you,' replied Jesus, "that the tax-gatherers and the notorious sinners are entering the Kingdom of God in front of you. <a href="/web/matthew/21.htm">World English Bible</a> Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said to him, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Most certainly I tell you that the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering into God’s Kingdom before you. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/matthew/21.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> which of the two did the will of the father?” They say to Him, “The first.” Jesus says to them, “Truly I say to you that the tax collectors and the prostitutes go before you into the Kingdom of God, <a href="/blb/matthew/21.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Which of the two did the will of the father?" They say, "The first." Jesus says to them, "Truly I say to you that the tax collectors and the prostitutes go before you into the kingdom of God. <a href="/ylt/matthew/21.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> which of the two did the will of the father?' They say to him, 'The first.' Jesus saith to them, 'Verily I say to you, that the tax-gatherers and the harlots do go before you into the reign of God, <a href="/slt/matthew/21.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Which of the two did the father's will? They say to him, The first. Jesus says to them, Truly I say to you, that publicans and harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/matthew/21.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Which of the two did the father's will? They say to him: The first. Jesus saith to them: Amen I say to you, that the publicans and the harlots shall go into the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/cpdv/matthew/21.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Which of the two did the will of the father?” They said to him, “The first.” Jesus said to them: “Amen I say to you, that tax collectors and prostitutes shall precede you, into the kingdom of God. <a href="/nabre/matthew/21.htm">New American Bible</a> Which of the two did his father’s will?” They answered, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/nrsvce/matthew/21.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are going into the kingdom of God ahead of you.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/matthew/21.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Which of these two did the will of his father? They said to him, The first one. Jesus said to them, Truly I say to you, that even the publicans and the harlots will precede you into the kingdom of God. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/matthew/21.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> “Which of these two did the will of his father?” They were saying to him, 'The first.' Yeshua said to them, “Amen, I say to you, that Tax Collectors and prostitutes precede you to the Kingdom of God.”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/matthew/21.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Which of the two did the will of his father? They said to him, The first. Jesus said to them: Verily I say to you, The publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. <a href="/godbey/matthew/21.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> <FR>Which one of the two did the will of the father?<Fr> They say to Him, The first. Jesus says to them, <FR>Truly I say unto you, that the publicans and harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.<Fr> <a href="/haweis/matthew/21.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Which of the two did the will of his father? They say to him, The first. Jesus saith to them, Verily I say unto you, That tax-gatherers and harlots shall go before you into the kingdom of God. <a href="/mace/matthew/21.htm">Mace New Testament</a> which of the two obey'd his father? they said, the first. Jesus reply'd, I declare to you, that the publicans and licentious people enter into the gospel kingdom before you. <a href="/wey/matthew/21.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Which of the two did as his father desired?" "The first," they said. "I solemnly tell you,' replied Jesus, "that the tax-gatherers and the notorious sinners are entering the Kingdom of God in front of you. <a href="/worrell/matthew/21.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> <FR>Which of the two did the will of the father?"<Fr> They say, "The last." Jesus saith to them, <FR>"Verily I say to you that the tax-collectors and the harlots are going into the Kingdom of God before you.<Fr> <a href="/worsley/matthew/21.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> Now<FR> which of the two did the will of <Fr>his<FR> father?<Fr> They say unto Him, The first. Jesus replied, <FR>Verily I say unto you, that publicans and prostitutes enter into the kingdom of God before you:<Fr> <a href="/parallel/matthew/21-31.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hriiyJYqzvc?start=6211" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/matthew/21.htm">The Parable of the Two Sons</a> …30Then the man went to the second son and told him the same thing. ‘I will, sir,’ he said. But he did not go. 31<a href="/greek/5101.htm" title="5101: Tis (IPro-NMS) -- Who, which, what, why. Probably emphatic of tis; an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what.">Which</a> <a href="/greek/1537.htm" title="1537: ek (Prep) -- From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out.">of</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/1417.htm" title="1417: dyo (Adj-GMP) -- Two. A primary numeral; two.">two</a> <a href="/greek/4160.htm" title="4160: epoiēsen (V-AIA-3S) -- (a) I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause. Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do.">did</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/2307.htm" title="2307: thelēma (N-ANS) -- An act of will, will; plur: wishes, desires. From the prolonged form of ethelo; a determination, i.e. choice or inclination.">will</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">of his</a> <a href="/greek/3962.htm" title="3962: patros (N-GMS) -- Father, (Heavenly) Father, ancestor, elder, senior. Apparently a primary word; a father.">father?”</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: Ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">“The</a> <a href="/greek/4413.htm" title="4413: prōtos (Adj-NMS) -- First, before, principal, most important. Contracted superlative of pro; foremost.">first,”</a> <a href="/greek/3004.htm" title="3004: Legousin (V-PIA-3P) -- (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. ">they answered.</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2424.htm" title="2424: Iēsous (N-NMS) -- Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites.">Jesus</a> <a href="/greek/3004.htm" title="3004: Legei (V-PIA-3S) -- (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. ">said</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autois (PPro-DM3P) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">to them,</a> <a href="/greek/281.htm" title="281: Amēn (Heb) -- Of Hebrew origin; properly, firm, i.e. trustworthy; adverbially, surely.">“Truly</a> <a href="/greek/3004.htm" title="3004: legō (V-PIA-1S) -- (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. ">I tell</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymin (PPro-D2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">you,</a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hoi (Art-NMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/5057.htm" title="5057: telōnai (N-NMP) -- A publican, collector of taxes. From telos and oneomai; a tax-farmer, i.e. Collector of public revenue.">tax collectors</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hai (Art-NFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4204.htm" title="4204: pornai (N-NFP) -- A prostitute; met: an idolatrous community. Feminine of pornos; a strumpet; figuratively, an idolater.">prostitutes</a> <a href="/greek/4254.htm" title="4254: proagousin (V-PIA-3P) -- From pro and ago; to lead forward; intransitively, to precede (participle, previous).">are entering</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/932.htm" title="932: basileian (N-AFS) -- From basileus; properly, royalty, i.e. rule, or a realm.">kingdom</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">of God</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymas (PPro-A2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">before you.</a> 32For John came to you in a righteous way and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/luke/7-29.htm">Luke 7:29-30</a> All the people who heard this, even the tax collectors, acknowledged God’s justice. For they had received the baptism of John. / But the Pharisees and experts in the law rejected God’s purpose for themselves, because they had not been baptized by John. <a href="/luke/15-1.htm">Luke 15:1-2</a> Now all the tax collectors and sinners were gathering around to listen to Jesus. / So the Pharisees and scribes began to grumble: “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” <a href="/luke/18-9.htm">Luke 18:9-14</a> To some who trusted in their own righteousness and viewed others with contempt, He also told this parable: / “Two men went up to the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. / The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—swindlers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. ... <a href="/matthew/9-10.htm">Matthew 9:10-13</a> Later, as Jesus was dining at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with Him and His disciples. / When the Pharisees saw this, they asked His disciples, “Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” / On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. ... <a href="/matthew/8-11.htm">Matthew 8:11-12</a> I say to you that many will come from the east and the west to share the banquet with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. / But the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” <a href="/luke/5-29.htm">Luke 5:29-32</a> Then Levi hosted a great banquet for Jesus at his house. A large crowd of tax collectors was there, along with others who were eating with them. / But the Pharisees and their scribes complained to Jesus’ disciples, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” / Jesus answered, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. ... <a href="/luke/19-1.htm">Luke 19:1-10</a> Then Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. / And there was a man named Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector, who was very wealthy. / He was trying to see who Jesus was, but could not see over the crowd because he was small in stature. ... <a href="/romans/9-30.htm">Romans 9:30-31</a> What then will we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; / but Israel, who pursued a law of righteousness, has not attained it. <a href="/acts/13-46.htm">Acts 13:46</a> Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: “It was necessary to speak the word of God to you first. But since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. <a href="/acts/28-28.htm">Acts 28:28</a> Be advised, therefore, that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!” <a href="/isaiah/65-1.htm">Isaiah 65:1-2</a> “I revealed Myself to those who did not ask for Me; I was found by those who did not seek Me. To a nation that did not call My name, I said, ‘Here I am! Here I am!’ / All day long I have held out My hands to an obstinate people who walk in the wrong path, who follow their own imaginations, <a href="/hosea/6-6.htm">Hosea 6:6</a> For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings. <a href="/hosea/2-23.htm">Hosea 2:23</a> And I will sow her as My own in the land, and I will have compassion on ‘No Compassion.’ I will say to those called ‘Not My People,’ ‘You are My people,’ and they will say, ‘You are my God.’” <a href="/ezekiel/18-27.htm">Ezekiel 18:27-28</a> But if a wicked man turns from the wickedness he has committed and does what is just and right, he will save his life. / Because he considered and turned from all the transgressions he had committed, he will surely live; he will not die. <a href="/ezekiel/18-30.htm">Ezekiel 18:30-32</a> Therefore, O house of Israel, I will judge you, each according to his ways, declares the Lord GOD. Repent and turn from all your transgressions, so that your iniquity will not become your downfall. / Cast away from yourselves all the transgressions you have committed, and fashion for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. Why should you die, O house of Israel? / For I take no pleasure in anyone’s death, declares the Lord GOD. So repent and live!</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Whether of them two did the will of his father? They say to him, The first. Jesus said to them, Truly I say to you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.did.<a href="/matthew/7-21.htm">Matthew 7:21</a> Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.<a href="/matthew/12-50.htm">Matthew 12:50</a> For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.<a href="/ezekiel/33-11.htm">Ezekiel 33:11</a> Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?The first.<a href="/2_samuel/12-5.htm">2 Samuel 12:5-7</a> And David's anger was greatly kindled against the man; and he said to Nathan, As the LORD liveth, the man that hath done this thing shall surely die: … <a href="/job/15-6.htm">Job 15:6</a> Thine own mouth condemneth thee, and not I: yea, thine own lips testify against thee.<a href="/luke/7-40.htm">Luke 7:40-42</a> And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on… Verily.<a href="/matthew/5-18.htm">Matthew 5:18</a> For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.<a href="/matthew/6-5.htm">Matthew 6:5</a> And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.<a href="/matthew/18-3.htm">Matthew 18:3</a> And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.the publicans.<a href="/matthew/9-9.htm">Matthew 9:9</a> And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him.<a href="/matthew/20-16.htm">Matthew 20:16</a> So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.<a href="/luke/7-29.htm">Luke 7:29,37-50</a> And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/matthew/21-9.htm">Ahead</a> <a href="/matthew/17-24.htm">Collectors</a> <a href="/matthew/16-1.htm">Desired</a> <a href="/matthew/21-12.htm">Entering</a> <a href="/matthew/16-27.htm">Father's</a> <a href="/matthew/21-28.htm">First</a> <a href="/matthew/21-2.htm">Front</a> <a href="/hosea/9-1.htm">Harlots</a> <a href="/matthew/21-27.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/matthew/20-21.htm">Kingdom</a> <a href="/matthew/21-2.htm">Loose</a> <a href="/matthew/11-19.htm">Notorious</a> <a href="/matthew/20-14.htm">Pleasure</a> <a href="/micah/1-7.htm">Prostitutes</a> <a href="/matthew/11-19.htm">Publicans</a> <a href="/matthew/11-19.htm">Sinners</a> <a href="/matthew/21-21.htm">Solemnly</a> <a href="/matthew/18-17.htm">Tax</a> <a href="/matthew/11-19.htm">Tax-Farmers</a> <a href="/matthew/11-19.htm">Tax-Gatherers</a> <a href="/matthew/21-21.htm">Truth</a> <a href="/matthew/19-6.htm">Twain</a> <a href="/matthew/21-21.htm">Verily</a> <a href="/matthew/18-23.htm">Wanted</a> <a href="/matthew/9-5.htm">Whether</a> <a href="/matthew/15-38.htm">Women</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/matthew/24-25.htm">Ahead</a> <a href="/matthew/21-32.htm">Collectors</a> <a href="/matthew/23-6.htm">Desired</a> <a href="/matthew/23-13.htm">Entering</a> <a href="/matthew/25-34.htm">Father's</a> <a href="/matthew/21-36.htm">First</a> <a href="/mark/2-12.htm">Front</a> <a href="/matthew/21-32.htm">Harlots</a> <a href="/matthew/21-42.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/matthew/21-43.htm">Kingdom</a> <a href="/mark/11-2.htm">Loose</a> <a href="/matthew/21-32.htm">Notorious</a> <a href="/matthew/24-49.htm">Pleasure</a> <a href="/matthew/21-32.htm">Prostitutes</a> <a href="/matthew/21-32.htm">Publicans</a> <a href="/matthew/21-32.htm">Sinners</a> <a href="/mark/9-41.htm">Solemnly</a> <a href="/matthew/21-32.htm">Tax</a> <a href="/matthew/21-32.htm">Tax-Farmers</a> <a href="/matthew/21-32.htm">Tax-Gatherers</a> <a href="/matthew/22-16.htm">Truth</a> <a href="/matthew/27-21.htm">Twain</a> <a href="/matthew/23-36.htm">Verily</a> <a href="/matthew/23-37.htm">Wanted</a> <a href="/matthew/23-17.htm">Whether</a> <a href="/matthew/21-32.htm">Women</a><div class="vheading2">Matthew 21</div>1. <a href="/matthew/21-1.htm">Jesus rides into Jerusalem upon a donkey</a> 12. <a href="/matthew/21-12.htm">drives the buyers and sellers out of the temple;</a> 17. <a href="/matthew/21-17.htm">curses the fig tree;</a> 23. <a href="/matthew/21-23.htm">puts to silence the priests and elders,</a> 28. <a href="/matthew/21-28.htm">and rebukes them by the parable of the two sons,</a> 33. <a href="/matthew/21-33.htm">and the husbandmen who slew such as were sent to them.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/matthew/21.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/matthew/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/matthew/21.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Which of the two did the will of his father?” This question is part of a parable Jesus tells to illustrate obedience and repentance. The context is a conversation with the religious leaders, who are being challenged to consider their own actions in light of God's will. The parable involves two sons, one who initially refuses to work in the vineyard but later repents and goes, and another who agrees to go but does not. This reflects the broader biblical theme of true obedience being demonstrated through actions rather than mere words, as seen in <a href="/james/1-22.htm">James 1:22</a>.“The first,” they answered. The religious leaders correctly identify the son who ultimately did the will of his father, highlighting their understanding of the principle that actions speak louder than words. This acknowledgment sets the stage for Jesus to confront them with their own failure to act on their professed beliefs. The response also underscores the importance of repentance and change, a recurring theme in the teachings of Jesus.Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, The phrase "Truly I tell you" (or "Amen, I say to you" in some translations) is a solemn affirmation used by Jesus to emphasize the truth and importance of what follows. It is a call to pay close attention, as Jesus is about to deliver a significant and perhaps unexpected message. This phrase is used frequently in the Gospels to introduce teachings that challenge conventional wisdom or religious norms.the tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. This statement would have been shocking to Jesus' audience, as tax collectors and prostitutes were considered sinners and outcasts in Jewish society. By stating that these individuals are entering the kingdom of God before the religious leaders, Jesus highlights the power of repentance and faith over mere religious status or outward piety. This echoes the message of John the Baptist, who called for repentance and prepared the way for Jesus (<a href="/matthew/3.htm">Matthew 3:1-2</a>). It also aligns with the prophetic tradition of God valuing a contrite heart over ritual sacrifice, as seen in passages like <a href="/psalms/51-17.htm">Psalm 51:17</a>. Jesus' ministry consistently reached out to those marginalized by society, demonstrating the inclusive nature of God's kingdom.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/jesus.htm">Jesus</a> The central figure in this passage, teaching through parables to convey spiritual truths. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_two_sons.htm">The Two Sons</a> Represent two types of people in their response to God's call; one initially refuses but later obeys, the other agrees but does not follow through. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_father.htm">The Father</a> Symbolizes God, who calls His children to work in His vineyard, representing His kingdom. 4. <a href="/topical/t/tax_collectors_and_prostitutes.htm">Tax Collectors and Prostitutes</a> Represent those considered sinful and outcast by society, yet they are receptive to Jesus' message and repent. 5. <a href="/topical/r/religious_leaders.htm">Religious Leaders</a> The audience of Jesus' parable, representing those who outwardly appear righteous but fail to truly follow God's will.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/true_obedience.htm">True Obedience</a> True obedience to God is demonstrated through actions, not just words. It is better to initially refuse and later obey than to agree and not follow through. <a href="/topical/r/repentance_and_redemption.htm">Repentance and Redemption</a> God values repentance and a change of heart. Those who are marginalized or sinful can find redemption and enter the kingdom of God. <a href="/topical/s/self-examination.htm">Self-Examination</a> Believers should examine their own lives to ensure they are not merely giving lip service to God but are actively doing His will. <a href="/topical/h/humility_and_openness.htm">Humility and Openness</a> The religious leaders' failure to recognize their need for repentance serves as a warning to remain humble and open to God's correction. <a href="/topical/g/god's_grace.htm">God’s Grace</a> The passage highlights the grace of God, who welcomes those who turn to Him, regardless of their past.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_matthew_21.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Matthew 21</a> <a href="/q/what's_the_bible's_view_on_prostitution.htm">What is the Bible's stance on prostitution?</a> <a href="/q/what_was_the_tax_collectors'_role_in_the_bible.htm">What role did tax collectors have in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/which_son_obeyed_his_father.htm">Which son truly obeyed his father's will?</a> <a href="/q/evidence_matthew_left_tax_job_for_jesus.htm">Matthew 9:9: Is there any historical evidence that a tax collector named Matthew abruptly abandoned his profession to follow Jesus?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/matthew/21.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(31) They say unto him, The first.--The answer came apparently from the lips of the very persons who were self-condemned by it, and so implied something like an unconsciousness that they were described in the person of the second son. They who gave God thanks that they were not like other men, could not imagine for an instant that the "went not" represented their spiritual life in relation to God's kingdom.The publicans and the harlots.--The words are purposely general, as describing the action of classes; but we cannot help associating them with the personal instances of the publican who became an Apostle (9:9), and of Zacchaeus (<a href="/context/luke/19-2.htm" title="And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.">Luke 19:2-10</a>), and of the woman that was a sinner (<a href="/context/luke/7-37.htm" title="And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment,">Luke 7:37-50</a>).Go into the kingdom of God before you.--Which literally means, lead the way into. What follows shows that our Lord is stating not so much a law of God's government as a simple fact. The choice of the word is significant as implying that there was still time for scribes and Pharisees to follow in the rear. The door was not yet closed against them, though those whom they despised had taken the place of honour and preceded them.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/matthew/21.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 31. - Whether of them (the) twain! Christ forces from the unwilling hearers an answer which, at the moment, they do not see will condemn themselves. Unaccustomed to be criticized and put to the question, wrapped in a self-complacent righteousness, which was generally undisturbed, they missed the bearing of the parable on their own case, and answered without hesitation, as any unprejudiced person would have decided. The first; i.e. the son who first refused, but afterwards repented and went. Verily I say unto you. Jesus drives the moral home to the hearts of these hypocrites. The publicans and the harlots. He specifies these excommunicated sinners as examples of those represented by the first son. Go into the kingdom of God before you; προάγουσιν ὑμας: are preceding you. This was the fact which Jesus saw and declared, he does not cut off all hope that the Pharisees might follow, if they willed to do so; he only shows that they have lost the position which they ought to have occupied, and that those whom they despised and spurned have accepted the offered salvation, and shall have their reward. We must remark that the Lord has no censure for those who sometime were disobedient, but afterwards repented; his rebuke falls on the professors and self-righteous, who ought to have been leaders and guides, and were in truth impious and irreligious. <a href="/commentaries/matthew/21-31.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Which Τίς (Tis) Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5101.htm">Strong's 5101: </a> Who, which, what, why. Probably emphatic of tis; an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what. of ἐκ (ek) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1537.htm">Strong's 1537: </a> From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out. the τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. two δύο (dyo) Adjective - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1417.htm">Strong's 1417: </a> Two. A primary numeral; 'two'. did ἐποίησεν (epoiēsen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4160.htm">Strong's 4160: </a> (a) I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause. Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do. the τὸ (to) Article - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. will θέλημα (thelēma) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2307.htm">Strong's 2307: </a> An act of will, will; plur: wishes, desires. From the prolonged form of ethelo; a determination, i.e. choice or inclination. of [his] τοῦ (tou) Article - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. father?” πατρός (patros) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3962.htm">Strong's 3962: </a> Father, (Heavenly) Father, ancestor, elder, senior. Apparently a primary word; a 'father'. “The Ὁ (Ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. first,” πρῶτος (prōtos) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4413.htm">Strong's 4413: </a> First, before, principal, most important. Contracted superlative of pro; foremost. they answered. Λέγουσιν (Legousin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3004.htm">Strong's 3004: </a> (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. Jesus Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2424.htm">Strong's 2424: </a> Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites. said Λέγει (Legei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3004.htm">Strong's 3004: </a> (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. to them, αὐτοῖς (autois) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. “Truly Ἀμὴν (Amēn) Hebrew Word <a href="/greek/strongs_281.htm">Strong's 281: </a> Of Hebrew origin; properly, firm, i.e. trustworthy; adverbially, surely. I tell λέγω (legō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3004.htm">Strong's 3004: </a> (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. you, ὑμῖν (hymin) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. the οἱ (hoi) Article - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. tax collectors τελῶναι (telōnai) Noun - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_5057.htm">Strong's 5057: </a> A publican, collector of taxes. From telos and oneomai; a tax-farmer, i.e. Collector of public revenue. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. prostitutes πόρναι (pornai) Noun - Nominative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4204.htm">Strong's 4204: </a> A prostitute; met: an idolatrous community. Feminine of pornos; a strumpet; figuratively, an idolater. are entering προάγουσιν (proagousin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4254.htm">Strong's 4254: </a> From pro and ago; to lead forward; intransitively, to precede (participle, previous). the τὴν (tēn) Article - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. kingdom βασιλείαν (basileian) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_932.htm">Strong's 932: </a> From basileus; properly, royalty, i.e. rule, or a realm. of God Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. before you. ὑμᾶς (hymas) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/matthew/21-31.htm">Matthew 21:31 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/matthew/21-31.htm">Matthew 21:31 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/matthew/21-31.htm">Matthew 21:31 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/matthew/21-31.htm">Matthew 21:31 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/matthew/21-31.htm">Matthew 21:31 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/matthew/21-31.htm">Matthew 21:31 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/matthew/21-31.htm">Matthew 21:31 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/matthew/21-31.htm">Matthew 21:31 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/matthew/21-31.htm">Matthew 21:31 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/matthew/21-31.htm">Matthew 21:31 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/matthew/21-31.htm">NT Gospels: Matthew 21:31 Which of the two did the will (Matt. Mat Mt) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/matthew/21-30.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Matthew 21:30"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Matthew 21:30" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/matthew/21-32.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Matthew 21:32"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Matthew 21:32" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>