Illustrated New TestamentMatthew 20

That are first,—in their own estimation, or in that of the world,—shall be last, in receiving the rewards and honors promised.

A penny a day; the common rate of wages.

Third hour; that is, after three of the hours of labor had expired.

About the sixth and ninth hour, at noon and in the middle of the afternoon.

Is thine eye evil? are you dissatisfied and envious?

Few chosen; that is, for eminent stations of trust and responsibility. This is a repetition of the sentiment with which the parable was introduced, (19:30,) and which it was intended to illustrate.

And shall deliver him to the Gentiles; to the Roman government; not having authority themselves to put him to death. For the fulfilment, see 27:1, 2.

The mother of Zebedee's children; Salome, the mother of James and John.

Drink of the cup, &c.; share the sufferings which I must endure.

Your minister; your servant. The idea is that although, in the estimation of the world, greatness is considered as implying elevation above others, and the exercise of authority and power over them,—yet, in the kingdom of Christ, it consists in unostentatious and humble efforts to promote their happiness and welfare.

Jericho; a large town west of the Jordan, about twenty miles northeast from Jerusalem.

Luke, in describing apparently the same case, speaks of only one blind man and represents the occurrence as taking place on their approach to Jericho, instead of when leaving it, (Luke 18:35-43.) Minute diversities in the circumstances of a narrative are not uncommon among the sacred writers, although this is one of the most striking instances. In the case of ordinary witnesses, such discrepancies are considered as proving the honesty and independence of the testimony.