In this stark parable from Jesus (we’ll explore the second part tomorrow), it’s absolutely correct to be flabbergasted by the way in which the tenants deny the owner’s rights and then reject the messengers that are sent to them. It’s important to note that in the first century in the region, landlords would put people in charge of their land who would cultivate it as tenant farmers. When harvest came, it was the landlord’s right to be able to collect a portion of the fruit of the crop. But what happens in the parable is shocking! For not only do the tenants refuse to pay what is rightfully owed, but when the servants of the landlord arrive, the tenants reject them violently or kill them!

This is completely outrageous of course, but Jesus’ point is that this is precisely what Israel has been like with God. The vineyard (see Isaiah 5:1-7) is an allusion to Israel (a common symbol for the nation) and the planter is God. Not only have they lived with disregard to their master, taking for granted that which is not theirs, failing to live in a way that God commanded of them, but they have also rejected (and killed) the prophets who were sent to warn them. What will happen next? How long will God tolerate such injustice and rebellion against him? Well, God still has one more messenger to send to them. AL

Questions

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you that in your patience you have sent messengers to warn the people of God to turn back to you. Please help us to be fruitful for you, give you the glory, and rightfully live our lives for you. Please help us to be quick to listen to and obey your voice. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.