Matthew 20:1

ὁμοία γάρ ἐστιν κ.τ.λ. There are many possible applications of the parable, but the only true explanation of its meaning to the disciples at the time must be reached by considering the question to which it is an answer. The parable is addressed solely to the disciples. The thread of thought may be traced in this way: It is impossible for a rich man, one who trusts in riches, to enter the kingdom of heaven. The disciples, through Peter, say ‘We at any rate left all and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?’ Our Lord’s answer is (1) partly encouraging, (2) partly discouraging.

(1) All who have in a true sense given up all for Christ shall have a great reward (ch. Matthew 19:28-29).

(2) But (Matthew 20:30) priority of time is not everything. The parable is given in explanation of this point. Not only will the disciples not be the only called, but they may not reach a higher place or a higher reward than some who follow them at an apparent disadvantage. Still all who work shall have their reward. But they must beware of a spirit very prevalent among hard workers, and not think too much of their own labours, or be displeased because others are equally rewarded.

Possibly the element of time is introduced to illustrate in a parabolic form the apparent degrees of service, and to signify that no man can estimate the comparative merit of work for God.

ἀνθρώπῳ οἰκοδεσπότῃ. Cp. ἀνθρώπῳ ἐμπόρῳ, ch. Matthew 13:45. ἀνθρώπῳ βασιλεῖ, ch. Matthew 18:23.

ἅμα πρωΐ. This unclassical use of ἅμα with an adverb is modelled on such classical expressions as ἅμα ἕῳ, ἅμα ὄρθρῳ: cp. the late forms ἀπὸ τότε, ἀπὸ πέρυσι, and the classical ἐς�, ἐς ἔπειτα, ἐς ὀψέ. Winer, p. 525 and note 5.