King James Version

What Does Matthew 21:30 Mean?

Matthew 21:30 in the King James Version says “And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not. — study this verse from Matthew chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.

Matthew 21:30 · KJV


Context

28

But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard.

29

He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went.

30

And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not.

31

Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.

32

For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
I go, sir: and went not—The second son's false compliance (ἐγώ, κύριε, egō, kyrie, 'I will, sir') represents the chief priests and elders. Respectful words (κύριε, 'lord/sir') masked disobedience. And went not—no action followed the promise.

This cuts at performative religion: prayers without obedience, confession without transformation, 'Lord, Lord' without doing the Father's will (Matt 7:21-23). The religious leaders spoke correctly about God, maintained proper forms, yet rejected His messengers (John, Jesus). Polite religiosity that refuses actual surrender is more dangerous than open rebellion that turns to repentance.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The Pharisees excelled at religious performance—tithing mint and cumin while neglecting justice and mercy (Matt 23:23). They said 'yes' to God publicly but refused prophetic calls to genuine repentance. Their religious credentials gave false security while actual obedience was absent.

Reflection Questions

  1. What 'yes' have you spoken to God that remains unactioned in your daily life?
  2. How does comfortable church attendance without costly discipleship mirror the second son's empty promise?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 15 words
καὶ1 of 15

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

προσελθὼν2 of 15

he came

G4334

to approach, i.e., (literally) come near, visit, or (figuratively) worship, assent to

τῷ3 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δευτέρῳ4 of 15

to the second

G1208

(ordinal) second (in time, place, or rank; also adverb)

εἶπεν5 of 15

and said

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

ὡσαύτως6 of 15

likewise

G5615

as thus, i.e., in the same way

7 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ8 of 15

And

G1161

but, and, etc

ἀποκριθεὶς9 of 15

he answered

G611

to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)

εἶπεν10 of 15

and said

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

Ἐγώ11 of 15

I

G1473

i, me

κύριε12 of 15

go sir

G2962

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

καὶ13 of 15

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οὐκ14 of 15

not

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἀπῆλθεν15 of 15

went

G565

to go off (i.e., depart), aside (i.e., apart) or behind (i.e., follow), literally or figuratively


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 21:30 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 21:30 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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