Central Truth

There was a common Jewish expectancy of a great feast at the beginning of the Messiah's Kingdom (Isaiah 25:6). The religious leaders expected to “eat bread” with the Messiah simply because they were Jews, but Jesus taught there is no monopoly on who is invited to share in God's Kingdom.

Reflections

Jesus was a master at transitioning conversations from common things to teach spiritual truths. While eating, He spoke to his host about serving a feast, not just for family or friends, but for the poor and disadvantaged. He said the blessing in this selfless act would be a reward at the resurrection rather than a return of the kindness. A Jewish man at the table immediately spoke up about the future blessing of “eating bread” with the Messiah, clearly indicating he did not believe Jesus was the Messiah. Jesus took the opportunity to share a story about a liberal host who sent banquet invitations to the elite of a city. As final preparations were made, he spread the word that everything was ready. Sadly, those who had been invited made excuses. One had bought a piece of ground, another cattle, and another had just been married. Although they may have expected to attend the feast, when it was ready, they were preoccupied. All declined, each giving some reasonable excuse. Angered at the insult, the host broadcasted an open invitation in the streets and alleys. He directed his servants to invite the poor, the lame, and the blind, and to bring them to his house. Many came, but there was still room for more, so the invitation went outside the city to the highways. Those wandering on their journey were so amazed by the generosity of the invitation, they eagerly came and the house was filled.

I have seen this truth in action countless times: The good news of God’s grace through Jesus, the Messiah, is often best received by the poor and disadvantaged, and by those whose response to the gospel is least expected. Those who look to Jesus for forgiveness, acknowledging and forsaking their sin, enter the Kingdom of God more readily than the self-righteous who are preoccupied with themselves. The invitation of the gospel went first to the Jews, but when rejected, is now being sent around the world to every nation. Everyone is freely invited; like an open bar, all we have to do is come!

Discussion Questions

1. Do you feel too sinful or insignificant to be a part of God’s Kingdom? How does this story speak to you?

2. When fishing, we look for places where the fish are biting. How does this statement relate to the story?

3. Should you be going out of your way to bring someone you know to God’s House so that it will be filled?

4. If your witness or ministry is being rejected in a given area, where is the Lord saying you should turn?