Even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him

 Matthew 21:23-32

Jesus entered the temple courts, and, while he was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him. “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you this authority?” Jesus replied, “I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John’s baptism—where did it come from? Was it from heaven, or of human origin?”

So they answered Jesus, “We don’t know.” Then he said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.

The parable of two sons shows the son his father wanted is going to do it, not what he said.

Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.

The question asked by the chief priests and elders is natural. In the light of what has happened. Jesus makes no direct answer, but it is clear that he and John derive their authority from the same source. In the three parables that follow, his critics find themselves under fire.

Tow sons. The first represents the social outcasts, who have made a genuine response to John and to Jesus; the second the religious leaders, with their mock obedience.

Why?

It is natural chiel priests and elders asked Jesus what authority comes from, but they refuse to accept the truth so Jesus didn't answer them.

The mercy and love from the Lord only available to those who regret and turn their heart to the father of heaven.

How?

When we sin against the Lord, if we repent and turn to the Lord, we will be released from our sins. If I trust in the Lord there is not any problem on my way ahead.