FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR'S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study guide commentary which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects. Compare your subject divisions with the five translations above. Paragraphing is not inspired, but it is the key to following the original author's intent, which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one subject.
1. First paragraph
2. Second paragraph
3. Third paragraph
4. Etc.
CONTEXTUAL INSIGHTS
A. In interpreting parables (see Special Topic in Introduction to Matthew 13) it is crucial to take the historical and literary context into consideration. In this particular parable the historical context is related to the closing phrase of Mat_19:30, which is repeated at the close of Mat_20:16. This literary parallel shows that the parable under discussion is primarily related to the subject of wealth and rewards. The larger literary context is seen in Mat_18:1; Mat_20:20-21; Mat_20:24, where the disciples were concerned about who was greatest among them.
B. Many have interpreted this parable as referring to the relationship between Jews and Gentiles and, from the larger context of the entire New Testament (or when the Gospels were written), this is possible. But, from the immediate context, this parable has to do with the relationship between the disciples themselves. The kingdom of God has a totally different standard of evaluation than the world (cf. Isa_55:8-11; Matthew 5-7). God's new kingdom (cf. Jer_31:31-34; Eze_36:22-38) is based solely on grace and not human merit. This is not meant to depreciate or discredit an active life of religious discipleship; rather, grace is foundational to salvation and righteous living (cf. Eph_2:8-10). Discipleship must be motivated by gratitude, not merit (cf. Rom_3:21-24; Rom_6:23; Eph_2:8-9).
C. We need to be reminded that when interpreting parables, the central truth and context are far more important than pushing the details into a theological system. The key to parables is to look for the unexpected, or culturally shocking statement.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought provoking, not definitive.
1. In every context where Jesus foretells his death, what do the disciples discuss?
2. Where is the third day mentioned in the OT concerning Jesus resurrection?
3. Is James and John's mother related to Jesus?
4. Why is Mat_20:28 so important?
5. Explain how "all" and "many" can mean the same.