November 24, 2019 AM
Dr. Michael Catt - 1933
#7 in series
Speaking in Parables
THE CHURCH OF THE CLOSED DOORS
Luke 14:12-24
OVERVIEW
When I was in college, a professor told me that a parable is a “heavenly truth wrapped in earthly language.” The word parable refers to a Greek word which means a symbol, type, figure, or illustration. These stories from the lips of our Savior were a mystery to many, but the Lord had a purpose for speaking in parables. Parables have been depicted in art and stained glass, and their truths have been communicated for thousands of years across all cultures because they are easy to identify with. In the last message we reflected on all we’ve received from the Father and recognized the responsibility that comes with those blessings.
For further study, this series is available online at sherwoodbaptist.net/messages.
Jesus took great joy in being with people. He loved to fellowship and share meals. The Pharisees accused him of being a glutton and a drunkard. WHAT JESUS DID WAS MEET PEOPLE WHERE THEY WERE.
“The Bible frequently uses the picture of a wedding banquet or great feast to describe both the present and future blessings of the Christian life. Jesus' parable of the great banquet focuses on our responsibility to respond to God's invitation.” – Barry McCarty
I. THE SETTING OF THE PARABLE
“Well-to-do persons in the Greco-Roman world usually invited people of somewhat lower social status in return for receiving honor, but these invitees would still be relatively respectable, not absolute dependents or beggars, as crippled, lame and blind people would be in that society, or peasants (although many Jewish teachers might regard inviting beggars and peasants as an act of piety). – IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament
It was the custom of the day for two invitations to be sent. One, a general invitation by word of mouth. Then, as the event drew near, a recognized servant of the Master's house would go from house to house to personally invite the guests.
II. THE LAME EXCUSES
I don’t think I’ve heard an original excuse in 40 years.
III. THE EXCLUDED ARE INVITED
When the host found out his friends had rejected his offer, he was angry. He had gone to the expense, effort, and energy to prepare this great event and all he got were excuses.
“The kingdom is not like a long, dreary funeral procession. It is a festive occasion of warm fellowship and unheard delight.” – Neil Lightfoot