Matthew 20:13

Arabic KEH Ketab El Hayat (كتاب الحياة)

فَأَجَابَ وَاحِداً مِنْهُمْ: يَاصَاحِبِي، أَنَا مَا ظَلَمْتُكَ؛ أَلَمْ تَتَّفِقْ مَعِي عَلَى دِينَارٍ؟

What Does This Mean?

In Matthew 20:13, the landowner speaks to a worker who was upset about receiving only one penny for his work. The owner reminds him that they agreed on this amount.

Explained for Children

Imagine you and your friend agree to clean up a park together for five cookies each. At the end of the day, your friend gives you four cookies but tells you it's okay because that was what you both said at first. This verse is like that story, where someone reminds another person they agreed on a deal.

Historical Background

Matthew wrote this Gospel in the late 1st century for Jewish Christians to show Jesus as the Messiah and teacher of the new covenant. It reflects a community grappling with questions about justice and faithfulness, set against the backdrop of Roman rule and Jewish tradition.

Living It Out Today

In today's world, imagine negotiating a deal at work or agreeing on terms for renting an apartment. The verse reminds us to remember our agreements and fulfill them honestly, even if we later feel they aren't as beneficial as hoped.

Topics

• justice
• honesty
• agreements
• fairness
• rewards
• expectations

Related Verses

• Mark 12:41-44
• Luke 7:36-50
• Proverbs 3:1-4
• Ephesians 4:28
• Romans 12:9

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the 'friend' mentioned in Matthew 20:13?

The 'friend' refers to a worker who was upset about receiving only one penny for his work, despite working longer hours than others.

What does the landowner mean by saying he is not doing wrong?

The landowner means that he has fulfilled the agreement made with the workers and is thus acting fairly according to their initial arrangement.

How can Matthew 20:13 be applied in modern business settings?

This verse reminds businesses and employees of the importance of honoring agreements, being transparent about compensation terms, and fulfilling contractual obligations.

What does this verse teach us about expectations versus reality?

It teaches that we should carefully consider our agreements and not let unrealistic expectations cloud our judgment when outcomes are as agreed upon but not desired.