Social Justice Motifs in Matthew 20:1–15 as Models For Private School Teachers’ Remuneration in Nigeria

Abstract

Nigerian university graduates and other cadres of school graduates often work in private educational institutions, earning below the national minimum wage of N30,000 ($73.01). Many teachers in these institutions do not pursue teaching as a career choice, thus exploiting limited job prospects. Here, Jesus' parable of the vineyard highlights the importance of equitable treatment in the professional sphere, as the lowest-ranked individuals eventually ascend to higher positions in terms of remuneration. Thus, this article explores the biblical concept of social justice in Matthew 20:1–15 in relation to teacher remuneration in Nigerian privately owned schools, highlighting its importance in a society with inequitable resource distribution. We conducted the study by thoroughly analyzing relevant literature and data obtained from interviewees in Ughelli metropolis. Findings reveal that the social justice motif in the text emphasises solidarity, dignity of labour, human dignity, respect, integrity, justice, the common good, solidarity, and interdependence, and these are relevant to the Nigerian workers’ remuneration, particularly teachers in Nigerian schools.