The Unwelcomed Are Welcome Here [Luke 14:12-24]

In The Parable of the Great Banquet, Jesus taught to welcome those who are typically unwelcome. Those who think they deserve God’s presence rarely experience it.

KEY IDEA

All people, regardless of health, wealth, ethnicity, or social status, are worthy of God’s love; they are created in His image. We as God’s people need to value and welcome them, not like the world sees them, but as God sees them.  In fact, those who actually think they deserve God’s presence rarely experience it at all.

WHY JESUS TOLD THIS STORY

Jesus had just healed a man on the Sabbath at a premiere event for disapproving religious leaders (14:1-6) 

In the previous parable, Jesus encouraged the type of humility that sought out the unprivileged positions (14:7-11).

Jesus challenged this well-to-do group to bless people who have no chance of returning the favor (14:12-14).

LET’S THROW A PARTY…

In this parable, Jesus taught of a gracious host who desired a packed banquet hall (14:15-17).

Those who rejected the invitation provided excuses that revealed their higher priorities (14:18-20).

Excuses:

#1. Possessions

#2. Occupations

#3. Relationships

Since the host spared no expense and refused to have any chair empty, he ensured that even the marginalized had an invitation (14:21-23).

Those who missed the banquet weren’t missing the invitation – they lacked the motivation (14:24). 

SO WHAT?!

Many of us will miss the glories of heaven due to our obsessions on earth.

#1. Your preoccupation with possessions will numb your soul to its greatest need – Jesus.

#2. No matter how much you climb the ladder in your occupation, you will never ascend past your need for God.

#3. Prioritizing any relationship over your devotion to God places that person on an unfitting throne.

Don’t let success intoxicate you into believing that you are OK with God.

For those who have felt unwelcomed and unwanted all your life, you are desired by God.