The parable of the two brothers in Matthew 21 was an early favorite of mine in childhood, though it had nothing to do with the fact that I have a brother. Of course, the focus is on each of their relationships with the Father more than their relationship to each other. Jesus is illustrating, as He often does, the fact that the sinners would accept Him before the corrupt religious leaders would. Yet, the fundamental problem of the Pharisees, as Jesus points out in this parable, is their profession without proper performance.
By application, how tragic are intentions without attending actions. The second son who said he would not but did is commended for his change of heart. Do we ever see any who follow the example of that second son?
* “I will not do it.” Jesus’ point was not to refer to that large class of people who say they will not, then follow through. Obviously, though, an unwillingness to serve Christ and those He died to save is not commendable. Keeping our word not to be involved or committed just won’t do!
* “I ought to do it.” Here’s the remark of someone with enough conscience to know what is right, but not enough desire or discipline to make the “ought” the “is.” That just won’t do!
* “I may do it.” This is the word of someone who has decided not to decide. Tomorrow is always their best work day. They are ever deciding, but never deciding. Of course, neither will this do!
God’s ideal servant is the one who says he will, then does it. As Jesus shows in this parable, He is even pleased with the stubborn whose heart is softened. Yet, the above groups’ attitudes just won’t do, literally and figuratively!
The Preacher Pollard Blog 