Lesson One (Chapter 20)
Call and Chosen
“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of G-d, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy. Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify G-d in the day of visitation.
1Peter 2:9-12
Introduction
- In our overview of Part 3, we looked at how our study of Yeshua's life and ministry in the book of Matthew was an attempt to hear Him speak by not only His words, but by His righteous living. He is the embodiment of G-d’s spoken Word. He is the “Living Torah."
- This week, we have been digging into chapter 20. Chapter 20 begins a series of teachings which include parables. It contains the first of the “Vineyard parables”.
- “The Parable of the Vineyard Workers”
- This parable, like all parables, must be read in context. The context begins in 19:27 with Peter’s statement, “See, we have left all and followed You. Therefore what shall we have?”
- 19:28-20:16 is Yeshua's answer to Peter’s question.
- They will sit on 12 thrones in the Kingdom.
- All who have left people/things – 100 fold.
- Many first will be last, and last first.
- “Vineyard Workers” parable.
- Last first, first last.
- Many “called” few “chosen”
Note: throughout these verses, the conjunction de is found. This can be either adversative or continuative, but is usually rendered “but” When you read this word in your Bible, ALWAYS ask if the word “and” does not work better.
- Isaiah 5:1-7 provides the “glossary” for the points of comparison for this parable and all “Vineyard” parables. The Vineyard, is House of Israel, the men of Judah His pleasant plant.
- Points of comparison:
- The Landowner: G-d (i.e. the King).
- The full-day laborers = those who live an entire life of faithfulness.
- The late-day laborers = those who repent late in life.
- The wages = reward in the World to Come.
- Single point = Those who repent, even late in life will receive a reward in the World to Come just like the life-long righteous.
Alternate explanation by context:
- The full-day laborers = the sages and prophets of old.
- The late-day laborers = the 12 Apostles, who unlearned, but who have labored personally with the Master.
- The wages = similar reward, but priority of “seating.”
- Single point = Although their “scholarship” is lacking, and their ministry short, they had been with the Master and because of that relationship, as “last” – they would be first (priority) and seated on 12 thrones.
Called and Chosen
- Matt 20:16: A repeat of the thought from 19:30. The two “last/first” statements should be tied to the “called/chosen” statement. NOT a “theological statement.” Hebraic thinking is not “theological” – it is personal and practical.
- kletos: “called.” from the same root as ekklesia [Assembly of believers]. Since it is an adjective, it is appropriate to read “called one” or “the called.”
- Rom 1:1; 1:6-7; 8:28: NOT a verb. It is a description of someone. Focus is upon purpose of the call.
- Rev 17:14: Called, chosen, and faithful. A description of “those with Him.”
- Called: appears to be function-related. Mikra from Hebrew indicates the idea of a call of assembly for battle.
- eklektos: “elected” or “chosen.” Adjective from root meaning “called out” or selected.
- Matt 24:22; 24; 31: description of people who are the possession of G-d.
- Rom 8:33-34: G-d’s own, are not subject to the Enemy’s charges.
- 1Pet 1:2: Mechanics of election.
- 1Pet 2:8-9: contrast is NOT between “called” and “chosen” but between “disobedient” and the “chosen generation.”
- 1Pet 2:9-12ff: Chosen is a description of G-d’s own possession. “Called” (verb) is related to a purpose of function = to praise, and glorify in obedience. (vs 9,12).
- Matt 20:16: The “many called” likely refers to all those who have answered the “call of duty” to G-d. “Chosen” likely refers in this case to those who through no merit of their own, would sit in honored seats in the Kingdom.
Plainly Told
- 20:17-19: Yeshua once again plainly tells His talmidim what is about to happen in the next few days.
- The talmidim are perhaps blinded by their expectations of what the Prophets tell of Messiah… They see only one visitation of Messiah.
Summary
- Have you answered the “call” of G-d? The call is for a purpose, a duty. It is a call to battle. It is a call to live for Him. If you are His own treasured possession, you are “chosen”
- All of His chosen, receive a call to live like the Master – to live as talmidim of the Holy One of Israel.
- Are you doing your duty?
“So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.’”
Luke 17:10