What Does It Really Mean to Follow God?
The Parable of the Two Sons is one of Jesus’ most direct teachings about genuine obedience and repentance. Found in Matthew 21:28–32, this parable reveals that true faith is measured not by words but by actions rooted in a transformed heart. It challenges every believer to move beyond empty promises and live out sincere devotion in daily life.
What kind of faith pleases God? Is it the kind that loudly proclaims devotion but falls short when tested, or is it the quiet faith that begins in reluctance yet grows into obedience? These are not abstract questions—they strike at the heart of our daily relationship with God. The Parable of the Two Sons in Matthew 21:28-32 challenges us to confront our own response to God’s call, exposing the gap between words and actions, promises and follow-through.
Jesus told this story to reveal a profound truth: it is not what we say that defines our faith but what we do. This lesson speaks as powerfully to us today as it did to the religious leaders of His time. In a culture where appearances often take precedence over substance, this parable compels us to reexamine the integrity of our faith.
The Father’s Call to His Children
In the story, a father goes to his two sons and asks them to work in his vineyard. The vineyard represents God’s kingdom, His ongoing work to bring righteousness, justice, and truth to the world. In Scripture, the vineyard is a frequent symbol of Israel (Isaiah 5:7), reminding us of God’s covenant relationship with His people.
The father’s request to “go and work today” is urgent. There is no time for delay; the harvest is ready, and labor is required. This is not just a story about two sons—it’s a call to each of us. God’s invitation to serve Him is active and immediate. The question is, how will we respond?
Two Sons, Two Responses
The two sons in the parable represent two contrasting attitudes toward God’s call.
- The First Son: A Picture of Repentance
The first son bluntly says, “I will not.” His response reflects rebellion, a refusal to submit to authority. Yet something remarkable happens—he changes his mind. The Greek word used here is metamelomai, meaning to feel regret or remorse that leads to a change of heart. This son represents sinners—those who initially reject God’s authority but later repent and turn to Him.Jesus highlights tax collectors and prostitutes as examples of this kind of repentance. Though they lived in open defiance of God, they humbled themselves and believed the message of John the Baptist (Matthew 21:32). Their transformation is a testimony to the power of grace. - The Second Son: A Warning Against Hypocrisy
The second son offers a quick, polite “Yes, sir,” but fails to follow through. He represents those who honor God with their lips but deny Him with their actions (Isaiah 29:13). This was the attitude of the religious leaders, who appeared righteous outwardly but lacked the fruits of genuine obedience (Matthew 23:27-28).
The Key to Pleasing God: Repentance and Obedience
At the heart of this parable lies the principle that true obedience is not about saying the right words but doing the Father’s will. The first son’s repentance aligns with Jesus’ consistent message throughout the Gospels: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17). It is not our past failures that define us but our willingness to turn from sin and align our lives with God’s purposes.
What This Parable Teaches Us About Christ
Jesus, the perfect Son, stands in contrast to both sons in the parable. Unlike the first son, He never rebelled against the Father. Unlike the second son, His words and actions were perfectly aligned. Jesus said, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me” (John 4:34), and His obedience extended even to death on a cross (Philippians 2:8).
This parable ultimately points us to Christ, who makes our obedience possible. Through His sacrifice, He not only forgives our sins but also empowers us to live lives of faithful service.
Relevance for Today: Faith in Action
This parable challenges the superficial faith that is all too common in our world. How often do we make promises to God that we fail to keep? How often do we hear His call but let busyness or fear prevent us from responding?
In James 2:17, we are reminded, “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” The lesson of the two sons calls us to live out our faith in tangible ways—serving others, sharing the gospel, and aligning our priorities with God’s will.
A Practical Path to Obedience
- Examine Your Heart: Take time in your daily devotion to ask yourself, “Am I living in obedience to God, or am I merely giving Him lip service?” Be honest with yourself about areas where you’ve resisted His call.
- Commit to Repentance: Like the first son, repentance begins with a change of heart. Confess your reluctance or disobedience in prayer and ask God to help you turn toward Him fully.
- Take Small Steps of Faith: Obedience doesn’t have to start with grand gestures. Begin by saying “yes” to the small things God places in front of you today—whether that’s helping a neighbor, forgiving someone, or setting aside time for prayer and Bible study.
- Trust God’s Grace: Remember that God doesn’t expect perfection. His grace is sufficient to cover your weaknesses and empower your efforts (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Prayer Journal Prompt for Spiritual Growth
In your My Devotion Journal, reflect on this question: Which son do I most resemble in my relationship with God? Write about a time when you struggled to obey Him. How did He lead you to repentance, and what was the outcome? Pray for God’s guidance to help you respond to His call with a willing heart and obedient actions.
A Call to Action
The choice is clear. God is calling you to His vineyard today. Will you respond with more than just words? Will you allow Him to transform your reluctance into obedience and your faith into action?
True faith is not passive—it’s a life lived in service to the One who gave His life for you. Say “yes” to God with your whole heart, and step into the abundant purpose He has for you.
Closing Thought
The kingdom of God doesn’t belong to the perfect but to the repentant. True obedience is not about how you start but how you finish. Let your life be a testimony to the transforming power of grace—proving that God can take even the most reluctant heart and use it for His glory.
