Luke 14

CONTEXT: Matthew Henry Comments on this chapter as follows: I. The cure which our Lord Jesus wrought upon a man that had the dropsy, on the sabbath day, and his justifying himself therein against those who were offended at his doing it on that day, ver 1-6. II. A lesson of humility gives to those who were ambitious of the highest rooms, ver 7-11. III. A lesson of charity to those who feasted the rich, and did not feed the poor, ver 12-14. IV. The success of the gospel not foretold in the parable of the guests invited to a feast, signifying the rejection of the Jews and all others that set their hearts upon this world, and the entertainment of the Gentiles and all others that come to be filled with Christ, ver 15-24. V. The great law of discipleship laid down, with a caution to all that will be Christ’s disciples to undertake it deliberately and with consideration, and particularly to ministers, to retain their savour, ver 25-35.

Depending on your version (modern) of the Bible a heading such as; Parable of the Dinner, The Parable of the Great Banquet, or something very similar may precede the portion of scripture containing our main text for today. This parable is an extraordinary example of the grace and mercy of God, foretelling the Gospel.

The call goes out (Gospel Message) to the Great Banquet (Eternal Life) yet so try excuses not to answer the invitation. In the end, however, mankind is without excuse Romans 1:20 (AMP) For ever since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power, and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through His workmanship [all His creation, the wonderful things that He has made], so that they [who fail to believe and trust in Him] are without excuse and without defense.

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SERMON

Compel Them to Come In

Charles Haddon Spurgeon / December 5, 1858

Scripture: Luke 14:23 / From: New Park Street Pulpit Volume 5