Matthew 20:15

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

Translations

Modern
Do I not have the right to do as I please with what is mine? Or are you envious because I am generous?’
Traditional
Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?
Literal
Or is it not lawful for me to do what I want with what is mine? Or is your eye evil because I am good?’
Latin
Aut non licet mihi quod volo, facere? an oculus tuus nequam est, quia ego bonus sum?

Original

Greek
English
Do I not have the right to do as I please with what is mine? Or are you envious because I am generous?’

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 Reward Vines, Vineyard

Topics

Contracts: Scriptures Illustrative of the Binding Force of Employee: Character of Unrighteous Employer: General Scriptures Concerning God: Sovereign Gospel: Compared to a Householder 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 Reward: A Motive to Faithfulness Servant: Hired: The Laborers of a Vineyard The Reward of Saints is of God's Good Pleasure Vineyard: Parables of Wages: Parable Concerning Wicked (People): Gospel Invitation To, Illustrated by the Parables of The Householder Works: Good: The Laborer's in the Vineyard