I apprehend that the two passages in Matthew (20:16, 22:14) show the contrast of the external effect and internal power. Chapter 22:14 is pretty plain. The gospel message as men speak had brought in a crowd, and where the true wedding garment was not, he who had it not was cast into outer darkness. The application of chapter 20:16 is less immediate, it is more the general principle; it connects with Matt. 19 There, reward is declared to be the fruit of sacrifice, and to guard against enfeebling grace this parable is added, where—though there was an appointed reward for labor—we are shown to be no judges of it: for there are (the converse) last, if God calls them to it, who will be first. For there may be a great appearance of labor, and yet God not own it. It is still the contrast of the outward appearance and those whom God has chosen, the fruits of His own grace, and not of following apparent principles by man, while only self is there. Only here it is labor and rewards bring it in: in chapter 22., external calling and grace.
My translation is not yet gone to press.
Affectionately yours in haste.
London,
October 16th, 1868.