Mat 21:31 | MHM | STEP | v. 31 : Jesus asks, Which of the two did the will of his father? The religious leaders answer, The first . Jesus then explains the meaning of the parable: the tax collectors and prostitutes, who were seen as sinners, are entering the kingdom of God ahead of the religious leaders. These “sinners” believed John the Baptist’s message, repented, and obeyed God, while the religious leaders, who claimed to follow God, rejected John’s preaching. True obedience is shown by actions, not just words (Ezekiel 18:21-24 ).

‏ Matthew 21:31

v. 31: Jesus asks, Which of the two did the will of his father? The religious leaders answer, The first. Jesus then explains the meaning of the parable: the tax collectors and prostitutes, who were seen as sinners, are entering the kingdom of God ahead of the religious leaders. These “sinners” believed John the Baptist’s message, repented, and obeyed God, while the religious leaders, who claimed to follow God, rejected John’s preaching. True obedience is shown by actions, not just words (Ezekiel 18:21-24 ^a).