We have four things in this chapter. Each one is a sermon that can stand alone.
I. The parable of the labourers in the vineyard (v. 1-16).
II. A prediction of Christ's approaching sufferings (v. 17-19).
III. The petition of two of the disciples, by their mother, reproved (v. 20-28).
IV. The petition of the two blind men granted, and their eyes opened (v. 29-34).
The parable of the labourers in the vineyard
The each laborer agreed with the wage that was set, but some grumbled when it was time to be paid. Their complaint was that had worked longer hours but had received the same wage as someone who only worked an hour. The object of this parable seems to be, to show that though the Jews were first called into the vineyard, at length the gospel should be preached to the Gentiles, and they should be admitted to equal privileges. (Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary)
Verse 16
"So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen."
Christ's approaching Suffering
This is the third time that Christ gave his disciples notice of his approaching sufferings; he was not going up to Jerusalem to celebrate the passover, and to offer up himself the great Passover; both must be done at Jerusalem.
The Ambitious Mother
20:21 What wilt thou?
The mother speaks for them. That these my two sons may sit, etc. They still believed that he would be an earthly monarch, notwithstanding that he had just told them of his speedy death.
20:22 Ye know not what is implied in being advanced in my kingdom, and necessarily prerequired thereto. All who share in my kingdom must first share in my sufferings. Are you able and willing to do this?
Both these expressions, The cup, the baptism, are to be understood of his sufferings and death. The like expressions are common among the Jews. Wesley's Notes
Jesus's Answer
"But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;"
"And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:"
Petition of the Two Blind Men.
A great mulitude followed Jesus out of Jericho. Two blind men called out to Jesus, one being Bartimaeus as specifically named in Mark and Luke.
"And Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you?
"So Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him."
This question stands out as one that Christ is also asking us. What will ye that I shall do unto you?
Bron Dutton
