The chief priests and religious authorities were trying to pick a verbal fight with Jesus, maybe tricking Him into saying something that would turn the people against Him. Jesus answered their forays by telling stories. Today's study text is such a parable.
There are several handles for picking up these verses, but let's zero in on the strange scene when the king gets upset because one of the guests at the wedding party is not wearing the appropriate attire for the occasion (Matthew 22:11-13).
In that middle eastern culture, the clothes told a lot about a person. [Take a look at last week's study; believers are invited to wear the clothes of compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience (Colossians 3:10, 12)] In the parable about the wedding feast, this man is not wearing a wedding robe. The king becomes furious and sends the man away.
Jesus is telling the Pharisees and scribes that it is not enough just to say "Yes" to God. We are also expected to live according to the values of God. Showing up at the party-showing up at church-is not enough. We are also to relate to others, make our decisions, and be spiritually clothed (Colossians 3:10, 12) according to the standards of the Lord of the Church, the One who invited us to the party.
You can tell that those religious leaders were disturbed by this story hat Jesus told because the very next thing they did was "plotted to entrap him in what he said" (Matthew 22:14).
If I am not challenged by this story, perhaps I have not heard it well.
If I am not bothered by this story, perhaps I have too high an opinion of myself.
IfI am not pondering how I might "dress better," perhaps I am too settled in my faith journey.
The clothes we are to wear are those spelled out in the previously mentioned Colossians text. Am I dressed well-enough to stay at the king's party?
What Someone Else Has Said:
Bishop Kenneth Carder has written (Living Our Beliefs, Discipleship): "The church's identity and mission are rooted in God. As a community called into being for the purpose of participating in God's life and mission, the church must live its divine identity and mission."
Prayer:
As you prepare this lesson, let your prayer begin: "Clothe me, Holy God ... "
