Matthew 21:33-46

The rejection of the king

In the second of three parables directed at Israel’s leaders, Jesus exposes yet again their outrageous rejection of God. The leaders are portrayed as the murderous tenants who murder the servants and eventually the master’s son. Though the Lord is patient, this final crime will not go unpunished. Judgement is imminent as the Lord will rightly take the keys to the kingdom out of their hands and give it to those who come in full obedience and dependence on God’s beloved Son.