The Parable of the Two Sons and the Vineyard
Meta Description: Join Jesus as He shares a timeless story for children, set in ancient Israel, about two brothers, a vineyard, and the true meaning of obedience. Discover daily life, family, and choices that please God.
A Busy Morning in the Galilee Hills
Children, imagine a morning not unlike this one, with the sun just beginning to warm the dusty paths of Galilee. Can you feel the gentle breeze? The air would carry the scent of olives and figs, and perhaps, if you listened closely, you might hear the bleating of sheep from a distant hillside, or the happy chatter of women grinding grain at the village well.
In those days, families lived close, and everyone had a part to play, even the little ones like you! Girls would help their mothers knead dough for the daily bread or fetch water in small clay jars. Boys would learn from their fathers, perhaps helping to mend fishing nets by the Sea of Galilee, or tending to the family's small flock of sheep on the green slopes. Every hand was needed, for life was simpler then, and everyone had to play their part.
Parable of the Two Sons and The Vineyard Scriptures - Matthew 21:28
“What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’
Mat 21:29
And he answered, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he changed his mind and went.
Mat 21:30
And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, ‘I go, sir,’ but did not go.
Mat 21:31
Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes go into the kingdom of God before you.
Mat 21:32
For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him. And even when you saw it, you did not afterward change your minds and believe him.
The Father's Request
Now, in a small village nestled among the rolling hills, a kind father had two sons. His heart was full of love for them, just as your father's heart is full of love for you. This father owned a small vineyard, and if you have walked near the hills of Judea or Galilee, you know how important vineyards are!
Vineyards were used to grow grapes. The grapes, when ripe, are sweet and juicy, and they make delicious wine that brings joy to many. But the vines must be cared for in order to have good grapes. They need to be pruned, and the ground needs to be tilled, and sometimes, those pesky wild boars try to sneak in and eat the fruit!
One morning, as the sun climbed higher and cast long shadows, the father went to his first son. "My son," he said, his voice gentle but firm, "go and work in the vineyard today. The vines need tending, and the grapes will soon be ready."
What do you think the first son said? Did he jump up and shout, "Yes, Father!"? No, children, he did not. He looked at his father, perhaps with a frown on his face, and he said, "I will not go." Can you imagine that? Saying 'no' to your own father?
A Change of Heart
But here is where the story truly begins. After a little while, perhaps as he sat and thought about his father's words, and the hard work that needed doing, something changed in the first son's heart.
He remembered his father's kindness, and how much his father provided for the family. He thought about the juicy grapes and the good wine they would make. He stood up, dusted off his tunic, and though he had said "no" with his lips, his feet carried him straight to the vineyard.
Children, he worked. He worked hard all day, under the warm sun, pruning the vines and clearing the ground, making sure the grapes would grow strong and sweet. Why do you think he changed his mind? Perhaps his conscience tugged at him, reminding him of his duty and love for his father.
The Second Son's Promise
Then, the father went to his other son. He asked him the very same thing. "My son," he said, "go and work in the vineyard today."
Now, this second son, he smiled at his father, a big, bright smile. "Oh yes, Father!" he said, "I will go, sir!" His words were sweet, like honey. He sounded so eager, so willing. He made his father happy with his answer.
But did he go? Did he pick up his tools and walk to the vineyard, ready to work under the warm sun? No, children. He did not. He said he would go, but he stayed right where he was, perhaps playing with his friends, or simply resting in the shade. He spoke with his lips, but his heart was not in it. How do you think his father felt when the day ended and the work was left undone?
Which Son Did His Father's Will?
Now, tell me, little ones, which of these two sons truly did what his father asked? Was it the one who said "no" but who went to do the job afterwards. Was it the son who said "yes" but did nothing?
Yes! You are so right! It was the first son, wasn't it? Even though he first said "no," his actions showed his true heart. He honored his father not just with words, but with his deeds. You see, children, God is more concerned with actions of obedience and not just promises to obey!
Just like the shepherd knows his sheep by their bleating and their faces, and not just by their names, so our Father in Heaven knows our hearts by our actions. When we choose to do what is right, when we choose to help our families and our neighbors, we show our love for God.
A Call to Action
So, my dear children, when your father or mother asks you to do something, or when you see someone who needs help, remember the story of the two brothers. What will you do? Will you say "yes" and then forget? Or will you perhaps stumble at first, but then choose to do the good thing, and truly make a difference with your actions? Let your actions speak louder than any words!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is a vineyard?
A: A vineyard is a field or garden where grapevines are grown. People grow grapes to eat and to make wine, which was an important drink in ancient Israel.
Q2: Why was it important for children to help their families in ancient Israel?
A: Families in ancient Israel often worked together to grow food, care for animals, and make what they needed. Everyone, even children, had a part to play to help the family thrive.
Q3: What does it mean to "honor your father and mother"?
A: It means to show respect, listen to them, and obey their good instructions. It also means to help them and care for them, just as they care for you.
Q4: What is the main lesson from this story?
A: The main lesson is that actions speak louder than words. It's not enough to just say you will do something good; you must actually do it to please God and others.
Conclusion
My dear little ones, remember this story as you grow. It reminds us that our Heavenly Father sees not just our words, but our hearts and our actions. When you choose to do what is good and right, even when it is hard, you bring joy to His heart, and you make the world a brighter place, one kind deed at a time. Go now, and let your light shine!
References
The Parable of the Two Sons. (n.d.). In The Holy Bible, English Standard Version (Matthew 21:28-32).
