And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but did not go.
30. I, Sir. “Seigneur, j’y vay;” — “Sir, I go to it.” This phrase is borrowed from the Hebrew language; for, when the Hebrews wish to offer their services, and to declare that they are ready to obey, they speak in this manner, “Here I am, Sir,” It is a laudable virtue in itself, as soon as God has spoken, to yield to Him ready...
And he came to the second,.... The Scribes and Pharisees, by the ministry of John the Baptist, Christ, and his apostles also: and said likewise; the same things as to the other son, the publicans and sinners; calling them into the Gospel dispensation, to hear the word, embrace truth, attend on ordinances, and labour in promoting the kingdom, and interest of the Messiah, whilst they...
And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir--"I, sir." The emphatic "I," here, denotes the self-righteous complacency which says, "God, I thank thee that I am not as other men" (Luk 18:11). and went not--He did not "afterward repent" and refuse to go; for there was here no intention to go.