LiturgyTools.net: Hymns about the parable of the workers in the vineyard

This is a selection of hymns based on the parable of the workers in the vineyard.

It does not include hymns about other topics like generosity which could be implied from the parable - just ones which relate directly to it.

The list is grouped into two sections:

Free-use (either copyright has expired, or the author has allowed them to be freely used)
Still subject to copyright and so can only be used if you are covered by a copyright license.

Both children's and adults hymns / songs are included in each list - because except for the youngest of children, it is is difficult to draw a clear distinction between them.

About the parable of the workers in the vineyard

This parable is also known as the Parable of the Generous Employer, or Parable of the Compassionate Employer. It is found only in Matthew's gospel, chapter 20, verses 1-16.

It tells the story of a generous employer who rewards workers hired later in the day in the same way that ones hired earlier in the day are paid. The story concluded with the question "why be envious because I am generous", and the statement "the last will be first and the first will be last".

Songs and hymns which may be freely used

In Parables the Lord Doth Show

Hymns and songs which may still be copyright

A Man Owned a Vineyard - Gillette (author's website) Tune TO GOD BE THE GLORY

Denarius Rap Song (video)

For the Fruit of all Creation -verse 2 - Pratt-Green

I Saw the Rich Ones (Work for a World) - Mayberry

No-one there who Wants Us / Come There is work for All - trans from Macht (melody and translation, final page)

Parable of the Vineyard Workers - Marti (video + chords)

Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard - Arnold

Tick Tock Tick Tock (video)

Vineyard Hymn - Hoffman - verse 1 - (author's website, suggested tune ABERYSTWYTH )