The allegorical features of the parable in the Gospel passage are clear. According to the parable, the vineyard is the possession of an absentee landlord who let it out to tenants. The care of the vineyard, the people of Israel, had therefore, been entrusted to the tenants, the Jewish leaders.

However, the tenants' ruthless treatment of the servants, who represent the Old Testament prophets, and the son, who is the figure of Jesus, showed their lack of respect for the landowner. It follows then that the failure to give the land owner his due is not on the part of the vineyard, that is, the people. Rather, it is the tenants, the Jewish leaders, who have failed the landlord.

By this, Mark anticipates the final act of his whole Gospel drama. Since the Jewish leaders rejected Jesus, the 'cornerstone', they have bought it upon themselves their own dismissal as leaders. They no longer have any authority in leading God's people. They betrayed the trust that God had placed in them. God, therefore, looks for new servants, as represented by Peter and the apostles.

In his letter, Peter reminds Christians that God has given the Church new and precious promises which include eternal life with God. However, Christians cannot take God's promises for granted. They have to live up to the trust that God has placed in them. They must give what is due to God, that is, they have to act in accord with the teachings of Christ.