Mat 21:32 | MHM | STEP | v. 32 : Jesus rebukes the religious leaders for their failure to believe John, even after seeing the repentance of the tax collectors and prostitutes. John came in the way of righteousness , teaching repentance and living a holy life, yet they refused to accept his message. The leaders were too proud to follow the example of those they looked down upon. Their stubbornness shows that it is harder for hypocrites, who rely on outward appearances, to repent than for open sinners who recognize their need for God (Psalm 10:4 ).

‏ Matthew 21:32

v. 32: Jesus rebukes the religious leaders for their failure to believe John, even after seeing the repentance of the tax collectors and prostitutes. John came in the way of righteousness, teaching repentance and living a holy life, yet they refused to accept his message. The leaders were too proud to follow the example of those they looked down upon. Their stubbornness shows that it is harder for hypocrites, who rely on outward appearances, to repent than for open sinners who recognize their need for God (Psalm 10:4 ^a).