Matthew 20:1-34

Contents: Parables of laborers in the vineyard. Jesus' death and resurrection again foretold. Ambitious requests of James and John. Healing of the two blind men.

Characters: Jesus, wife of Zebedee, James, John, two blind men.

Conclusion: One hour's service in the spirit of humble trust will be as abundantly rewarded as 12 hours of legal service where reward is sought as a matter of debt. The way to true greatness is to be humble and serviceable with an eye continually to the great pattern servant, Jesus, who came into the world not to be waited upon but to wait upon others and give His life a ransom.

Key Word: Service, Matthew 20:1; Matthew 20:27.

Strong Verses: Matthew 20:16; Matthew 20:26; Matthew 20:27.

Striking Facts: Matthew 20:18; Matthew 20:19. The death of Jesus Christ was not, as some say, the result of His being the victim of circumstances too strong for Him, but was the result of His own program. He came (Matthew 20:28) to give His life a ransom. He did not die as a martyr, but as a Victor. He never foretold His death without adding that He would be resurrected.