Matthew 21:32 Meaning and Explanation
“For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Jesus explains that the leaders rejected John's call to righteousness while outcasts believed, and even seeing this the leaders would not repent.
What Does Matthew 21:32 Mean?
Jesus explains the parable plainly. John came preaching "the way of righteousness," yet the leaders did not believe him, while tax collectors and harlots did. Even after witnessing this, the leaders refused to repent and believe. Their hardness persisted despite clear evidence.
The tragedy is not lack of opportunity but refusal to respond. The despised heard John's call and turned; the esteemed saw their turning and remained unmoved. Jesus exposes that the kingdom is entered through repentant faith, available to all who will receive it. Witnessing others come to God should soften the heart, not harden it. The verse pleads, even now, that no one let pride keep them from believing.
Matthew 21:32 in the Original Language
dikaiosyne (δικαιοσύνη), 'righteousness' -- the right way of living that John preached.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 21:32
What does Matthew 21:32 mean?
Jesus explains that the leaders rejected John's call to righteousness while outcasts believed, and even seeing this the leaders would not repent.