"Where Will You Sit?"

N.T. #589 "Where Will You Sit?"

July 14, 2025 

Luke 14-Part 2 

LET IT GLOW 

Do you have a place reserved in heaven?

Most cultures have a seating order at a banquet, wedding, or official gathering. With the Jews at that time, the most honored guest reclined to the left of the host while the next honored guest reclined on his right. With this in mind, Jesus observed the religious pecking order at the Pharisee's table. (I wonder where Jesus sat.)

With His observation, Jesus told a parable, which really wasn't a story:

• At a wedding, don't sit in the highest place of honor, head table, lest you be embarrassed when removed by the host. It would be shameful or humiliating to take the pace of the lowest in the room. (verses 7-9)
• Instead, take a seat in the lowest place and let the host bring you up to a place of honor and being exalted. This would assign one to their proper dignity.

Can't you see everyone looking around at their spot? 

LET IT GROW

What was Jesus teaching? 

For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abazed: and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. (verse 11)

Jesus is warning about the eternal consequences of pride. The Pharisees had their determined seating arrangements at a banquet and also judged themselves worthy in God's eyes. In heaven, humility receives praise; sacrifice receives glory; motive trumps action. Pride results in a public disgrace. 

Here is a contrast between the kingdom of God and the dominion of evil. In God's kingdom, bowing low puts the humble on the fast track to the top. Jesus subjected Himself to the humiliation of the cross for the sake of humanity. He is our King because He lowered Himself to become our Servant. (Phil. 2:5-11)

It doesn't matter where I am seated in heaven, just so I am there.

[Resource: Swindoll's Living Insights in Luke]

In the kingdom of evil, they want the glory now, doing whatever it takes to get it. We can think of examples of this, I'm sure. 

LET IT GO

May we be humble in Your sight, O Lord God.

May we exalt others above our self. 

Thank You for dying on the cross so I don't have to pay for my sins.

Such love!