Bible Strands
Matthew 21:30
Then the man went to the second son and told him the same thing. ‘I will, sir,’ he said. But he did not go.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The father in the parable approaches the second son and repeats his command to work in the vineyard. The son verbally agrees but refuses to follow through.
The words — προσελθὼν (proselthōn) means "having come" or "approaching," and ὡσαύτως (hōsautōs) translates literally as "likewise." These terms mark the narrative shift to the second son and emphasize the identical command given.
The thread — The pattern of verbal compliance without action appears in Ezekiel 33:31, Titus 1:16, and Matthew 23:3. These passages consistently contrast spoken profession with actual obedience.
Why it lands — The text demands that obedience be measured by action rather than words. It requires the reader to examine whether their own responses to divine commands result in actual movement or remain empty agreement.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.
Cross-references
- Titus 1:16 They profess to know God, but by their actions they deny Him. They are detestable, disobedient, and unfit for any good deed.
- Ezekiel 33:31 So My people come to you as usual, sit before you, and hear your words; but they do not put them into practice. Although they express love with their mouths, their hearts pursue dishonest gain.
- Matthew 23:3 So practice and observe everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.
- Romans 2:17 Now you, if you call yourself a Jew; if you rely on the law and boast in God;