Thank God for His Generous Grace!

Week 10, Day 2 Reading: Matthew 20:1-16

Matthew 20:15   "So the last will be first, and the first last.”

The note on this verse in the ESV Study Bible really captures the meaning quite well. Be sure to read the entire parable ... and then read this note.

"A disciple of Jesus should not measure his or her worth by comparing it with the accomplishments and sacrifice of others, but should focus on serving from a heart of gratitude in response to God's grace. Jesus is not denying degrees of reward in heaven (see 1 Corinthians 3:14-15) but is affirming that God's generosity is more abundant than anyone would expect: all the laborers except the very first got more than they deserved. It is probably correct also to see here a warning that Jesus' early followers (such as the Twelve) should not despise those who would come later." 

I also believe this parable shows just how deeply our sin is ingrained within us. Instead of rejoicing over the master's generosity in giving to others what they did not work for .... we complain because we feel in some way "cheated!" Yet ... the first one's who were hired got exactly what they had agreed to work for!  

Oh the sinfulness of the human heart. Thank God for HIS generous grace! 

Thanks for stopping by . . .

pj