Directions: What follows in bold is the verses from a parable found in Matthew 21:28-31. Under each verse are some questions which are intended to help you understand the parable’s message and to relate it to your world today. Address the questions that follow.
Activity one: The Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 13:44)
“The kingdom of heaven [God] is like treasure hidden in a field…”
Name those things that you consider “treasure” — those things you would truly long to have.
“which someone found and hid…”
What would be an example of something so wonderful; so desirable; so valuable that someone would want to hide it from everyone else?
“Then in his [her] joy…”
What would truly bring you joy, happiness and fulfillment in your life? Be honest! Explain why this would bring you the happiness that you think it will. Does it bring happiness to others who have it?
“He [she] goes and sells all that he [she] has and buys that field”
Would you be willing to give up absolutely everything (all possessions) for something that would bring you true happiness? Is this a radical thing to do?
Activity Two: Parable of the Two Sons (Matt 21:28-31)
“A man had two sons; he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today’…”
Name some of the responsibilities you have been given by your parents. As a person raised a Christian, what responsibility have you been given?
“He answered, ‘I will not’…”
Have you ever blatantly refused to do something that your Mom or Dad asked you to do? Why did you refuse? Have you refused to do what your faith asks of you?
“but later he changed his mind and went…”
Have you ever blatantly refused to do something that your Mom or Dad or your faith asked you to do and then changed your mind? What made you change your mind? How did you feel because of it?
“The father went to the second [son] and said the same; and he answered, ‘I go, sir’; but he did not go”
Have you ever told your Mom or Dad that you would do something that asked you to do when you knew you had no intentions of doing it? Why would you say you would do something when you knew you would not? Did your decision make you feel guilty? Why or why not?
“Which of the two [sons] did the will of his father?”
Which of the two sons did the will of his father? How would you answer this question? Which of the sons would your parents approve of most?
Which son did the right thing? Explain your answer.