Week 10: Monday The Placement of This Parable

When I taught, I reminded students of two crucial elements in Bible

study: Content (what is said) and Context (the setting, occasion, and

culture). There is much for us to learn when we consider this week's

parable of the vineyard workers. We first need to zoom out and observe

the surrounding moments that frame this teaching.

In Matthew 19, we encounter a rich young man who allows his wealth to

keep him from following Jesus. This man, who has everything the world

deems valuable, is going to miss the most important thing of all. As the

disciples contemplate this encounter, Peter says, "See, we have left

everything and followed you. What then will we have?" (Matthew 19:27,

TRANSLATION).