By Robert Olsen, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile
Offered to All?
Matthew 22:1–14
The Invited (1–7)
Continuing to discuss the kingdom of heaven, Jesus tells a parable similar to the one with the wicked tenants.
In this story Jesus uses the metaphor of a king throwing a wedding feast. The king sent his servants to go alert those who were invited that his son’s wedding feast was ready. However, those who were invited refused to come. Again he sent more servants who then were mistreated by the invitees.
In this parable Jesus is telling the Pharisees the wedding feast represents God’s eternal kingdom. God sent prophets to alert the Jews and turn their hearts to Him.
The nation of Israel was chosen by God, however, they turned toward other gods and disobeyed God. The Pharisees were in line with these rebellious Jews of the Old Testament.
They had the law and the prophets to instruct them yet they missed the point which was supposed to lead to love of God and of neighbor.
The Gathered (8–10)
In this parable, after the Jews reject the wedding invitation, the king sends out invitations to anyone the servants can find. This represents the gospel being spread to the Gentiles. In the Gospels the Jews often did not like the idea of Jesus interacting with Gentiles but the gospel is for all people — Jew and Gentile alike. All who hear the message of Christ and respond to it are welcomed into God’s eternal kingdom.
This should motivate us to preach and teach the gospel to all people regardless of race, class or nationality.
The gospel is the only thing that saves people. No other religion will suffice.
Some people believe that other religions ultimately lead to God but only through Christ can we experience salvation.
This is why Christians must go forth with the gospel of Christ — to reveal to everyone the glory of God made known to us in Christ.
The Unprepared (11–14)
Many guests from the kingdom came to the wedding feast but one man was not wearing the proper garments. There are several possible meanings for this but the main point is that this man did not have what was needed to be at the feast.
Many scholars believe that in these days a king would provide garments for the guests to wear. This man refused to wear the garment and instead believed he was good enough the way he was. As a result he was thrown out.
Just as this man needed the right clothes to be allowed into the wedding feast, we also need to have Christ’s righteousness in order to be allowed into God’s kingdom. Salvation is found in Jesus Christ and His righteousness.
If we try to get into God’s kingdom on our own merits, we will be thrown into hell. We need to be clothed with Christ’s righteousness, not our own, because our own righteousness is akin to filthy rags.
Have you trusted in Christ’s righteousness for your salvation or are you trying to be good enough on your own?
Share with others: