agreed. Note that this first group of workers wanted a definite contract with the householder before they would work. The later groups were willing to work simply by faith in the employer's word that “whatsoever is right I will give you” (Matthew 20:4), and He rewarded their faith abundantly. Even those hired at the eleventh hour received the same wages, for they would have been willing to work all day (Matthew 20:7) if they had known. Thus, rewards for Christian service are based more on motive and opportunity than on quantity. See also 1 Corinthians 3:13-15.

penny. This was the Roman “denarius,” equal in value to about one day's wages for the average laborer at that time.

crucify him. The Lord Jesus told His disciples at least fourteen times that He would be put to death, yet when the event came, they were still unprepared.

the third day. There are fourteen references to Christ's resurrection on “the third day” in the New Testament. Thus, in terms of days of the week, it seems clear that He was slain on the sixth day of the week, the same day on which man had been created. He then rested in the tomb on the seventh day, the same day on which He rested after completing His work of creating and making all things, and rose again victoriously, never to die again, on the first day of the new week.

ransom. Christ several times had informed the disciples about His coming death and resurrection. Here He also indicates that His death will be in substitution for them, dying for their sins (Matthew 10:28).

two blind men. Jesus healed one blind man as He was entering Jericho (Luke 18:35-43), then He healed two as He later was leaving the city, as noted in this verse. One of these blind men was named Bartimaeus, and it was evidently he who was spokesman for the two (Mark 10:46-52).