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Book of Matthew - Chapter 20 - Verse 6

20:6
And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle?

Meaning

At the eleventh hour in the parable of the laborers in the vineyard, we see a powerful lesson about God's grace and the inclusivity of His kingdom. The landowner's question to the idle workers, "Why stand ye here all the day idle?" serves as a reminder for us to not waste the time and opportunities that God has given us. It conveys the message that God is always seeking to bring people into His kingdom, regardless of when they come to Him. The landowner's generosity in hiring laborers even at the eleventh hour highlights the abundance of God's grace and the fact that it is never too late to turn to Him. This verse challenges us to reflect on how we are using our time and talents in service of God, and encourages us to be diligent in seeking and doing His will. It reminds us that God is always ready to welcome us into His kingdom, no matter how late we may come to Him.

Theological Overview

In the theological interpretation of the verse 'And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle?', some scholars suggest that this parable from the book of Matthew is not only about the importance of labor and the reward for those who work in the vineyard but also carries a deeper theological meaning. The eleventh hour represents the last chance for salvation, symbolizing God's grace being available to all, regardless of when they come to Him. The word "idle" is significant in this context, as it not only refers to physical idleness but also spiritual idleness, highlighting the need for active participation in God's work. Additionally, the question posed by the landowner challenges believers to reflect on their own lives and purpose, questioning why they are not fully engaged in the Kingdom of God. Overall, this verse encourages believers to be diligent in their faith and to recognize that God's grace is available to all, no matter when they come to Him.

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