The Wedding Garment

N.T.#250 "The Wedding Garment"

Feb. 23, 2024 

Matthew 22-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

It is traditional to have matching attire for the maids and men in the wedding party. If someone refuses to wear the required clothing, then they will not participate in the wedding and the banquet. God has some requirements for us, too, in order to enter heaven and participate in the Marriage Feast of the Lamb.

Jesus told a parable of the wedding banquet to the Pharisees. He was showing the kingdom of heaven was like a king who invited his elite guests 3 times to attend the marriage of his son and banquet, but they rejected his invitation. They even killed the servants of the king. So the king took action and slew the murderers and burned the city. (verse 7) Then the king sent his servants out on the roads to invite whoever may come to attend.  

It was customary to give the wedding guests garments to wear to the banquet. A man was found by the king not wearing the wedding garment, so the king asked him why. (verse 11) The guy was speechless. Then the king instructed his servants to bind the man and cast him into outer darkness. 

There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (verse 13)

What spiritual application is there for this parable?

Sinners are invited to attend the marriage of the Lamb in heaven. The garment required in order to attend is the Robe of Righteousness, which is provided by trusting Jesus, Savior and Redeemer. 

LET IT GROW

The marriage feast of the Lamb is read about in Revelation 19. It is Jesus and His church, which consists of faithful believers in all time.

For many are called, lbut few are chosen. (verse 14)

The Jews (invited first) have the outward call of God, but it is not sufficient for salvation through faith in Jesus as the Messiah. There is an open invitation to heaven, but the requirement is to get ready now. Gentiles are provided an invitation. A clean heart is essential for entrance. 

Those who refuse to humble before Jesus will be cast into Hell's darkness. Many are called to Jesus, but few are chosen to wear the wedding garment. 

Are you prepared? Will you be in heaven, clothed with the salvation and righteousness of Jesus?

LET IT GO

Glory to the Lamb of God who takes away sin!