Matthew 21:38
Afrikaans DB 2006 (Die Boodskap)
Maar dit het nie so gebeur nie. Toe die boere die seun sien aankom, sit hulle koppe bymekaar. ‘Weet julle,’ sê hulle vir mekaar, ‘daardie seun gaan eendag hierdie grond erf. Dis nou ons kans. As ons hom nou doodmaak, sal ons mos later self die grond in die hande kan kry. Wanneer die eienaar eendag doodgaan, sal daar niemand meer oor wees om hier te boer nie.’
What Does This Mean?
In this verse from Matthew, the landowners (husbandmen) recognize Jesus as the heir to God's kingdom and decide to kill him to take his inheritance for themselves. This shows their rejection of Jesus' authority and their greed.
Explained for Children
Imagine a farmer who has many workers taking care of his farm. One day, he sends his son to collect rent from these workers. But the workers see the son as someone who will soon own everything, so they decide to hurt him and take all the land for themselves. This is like Jesus coming to teach but being rejected by some people.
Historical Background
Matthew wrote this Gospel in the late first century AD for a Jewish-Christian audience. The story reflects the historical context of Jews rejecting their Messiah and instead aligning with Roman authorities, leading to severe consequences.
Living It Out Today
Today, we can see parallels in how people often reject authority figures who represent change or truth because they fear losing control or status. This verse teaches us about the danger of envy and the importance of recognizing divine authority.
Topics
rejection of authoritydivine justiceinheritanceenvious behaviormessianic prophecyscriptural fulfillment
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the husbandmen decide to kill Jesus in this parable?
The workers decided to kill Jesus because they saw him as a threat to their power and control over the inheritance. They wanted to seize everything for themselves.
What is the significance of referring to Jesus as 'the heir'?
Referring to Jesus as 'the heir' emphasizes his role as the rightful inheritor of God's kingdom, which highlights the rejection and betrayal faced by Jesus from some people.
How does this parable relate to real-life scenarios today?
This parable can be applied to situations where people reject authority figures who represent change or truth because they fear losing their position of power. It teaches about the consequences of envy and greed.
What lessons can we learn from Matthew 21:38?
We learn that recognizing divine authority is crucial, and rejecting it out of selfish desires has serious consequences. This verse also warns against the dangers of envy and greed in our lives.