Matthew 20:10

The Parable of the Workers · Matthew 20:1–16
Read Matthew 20

Translations

Modern
So when the original workers came, they assumed they would receive more. But each of them also received a denarius.
Traditional
But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny.
Literal
And having come, the first thought that they will receive more. But they themselves also received each a denarius.
Latin
Venientes autem et primi, arbitrati sunt quod plus essent accepturi: acceperunt autem et ipsi singulos denarios.

Original

Greek
English
So when the original workers came, they assumed they would receive more. But each of them also received a denarius.

Notes

This parable is like the parable of the lost son (Luke 15:11–32). In both, God shows grace to two groups, but one complains about unfair treatment.

Jesus was traveling to Jerusalem (Matthew 19:1; 20:29; 21:1). This was another chance to teach the disciples what it means to be his disciples.

Theme notes and profiles

God’s Promised Kingdom

Events

Glossary

Gospel Gospel of Matthew Penny Reward Vines, Vineyard

Topics

Contracts: Scriptures Illustrative of the Binding Force of Employee: Character of Unrighteous Employer: General Scriptures Concerning Gospel: Compared to a Householder Hours: Twelve, in the Day Jesus, the Christ: Enunciates the Parable of the Vineyard (In Peraea) Jesus, the Christ: Parable of The Laborers in the Vineyard Kingdom of Heaven: Compared: To a Householder Labor: General Scriptures Concerning Parables: Parables of Christ: Labourers Hired Penny: Worth One Day's Wages Reward: A Motive to Faithfulness Servant: Hired: The Laborers of a Vineyard Vineyard: Parables of Wages: Parable Concerning Wicked (People): Gospel Invitation To, Illustrated by the Parables of The Householder