The astonishment of precedence.
The text of this parable is found in the last verse of the preceding chapter. The words are repeated as the conclusion of its argument (Matthew 20:16). Hence the critics say the last verse of Matthew 19:1-30 ought to have been the first of Matthew 20:1-34. Yet the last verse of Matthew 19:1-30 is evidently connected with Christ's discourse upon the case of the ruler. Note—
I. THAT PRECEDENCE IS ASTONISHED IN GOD'S GIFTS AND CALLINGS.
1. The Jews were the people of ancient privilege.
2. Their presumption upon their precedence was rebuked
(a) In his Person.
(b) In his gospel offer of salvation.
Then Christ rejected them. Their place and nation were taken away by the Romans; and they have ever since suffered in captivity.
II. THAT PRECEDENCE IS ASTONISHED IN GOD'S RECKONINGS.
1. Consider the lessons of the marketplace.
2. Consider the lessons of the vineyard.
3. Consider the lessons of the reckoning.