And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying:
2 “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son,
3 and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding feast, but they would not come.
4 Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, “See, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.”
5 But they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business,
6 The rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them.
7 The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city.
8 Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy.
9 Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.
10 And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests.
11 “But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment.
12 And he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless.
13 Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’
14 For many are called, but few are chosen.
15 Then the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words.
16 And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone’s opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances.
17 Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?”
18 But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why put me to the test, you hypocrites?
19 Show me the coin for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius.
20 And he said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?”
21 They said to him, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”
22 When they heard it, they marveled. And they left him and went away.
23 The same day Sadducees came to him, who say that there is no resurrection, and they asked him a question,
24 “Teacher, Moses said, ‘If a man dies having no children, his brother must marry the widow and raise up offspring for his brother.’”
25 Now there were seven brothers among us. The first married and died, and having no children left his wife to his brother.
26 So too the second and the third, down to the seventh.
27 Last of all, the woman also died.
28 In the resurrection, therefore, of the seven, whose wife will she be? For they all had her.”
29 But Jesus answered them, “You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God.
30 For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven.
31 And as for the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was said to you by God:
32 ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? He is not God of the dead, but of the living.”
22 And when the crowd heard it, they were astonished at his teaching.
34 But when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together.
35 And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to test him.
36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?”
37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.
38 This is the great and first commandment.
39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
40 On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.
41 Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them a question,
42 saying, “What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?” They said to him, “The son of David.”
He said to them, “How is it then that David, in the Spirit, calls him Lord, saying,
44 ‘The Lord said to my Lord,
“Sit at my right hand,
until I put your enemies under your feet”’
45 If then David calls him Lord, how is he his son?”
46 No one was able to answer him a word, nor from that day did anyone dare to ask him any more questions.
The True Meaning of Matthew 22
The Gospel of Matthew was written by the apostle Matthew, also known as Levi, who was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus. Matthew, a former tax collector, had a unique perspective on the teachings and ministry of Christ. Jesus confronts the religious leaders of the time in this chapter. The Pharisees and Sadducees attempt to trap Jesus with their questions, but he skillfully navigates their challenges, revealing their hypocrisy and the true nature of God’s kingdom. These events foreshadow the growing tension that will ultimately lead to Jesus’ crucifixion, as described in later chapters.
Throughout the passage, we see Jesus drawing upon the wisdom of the Old Testament, quoting from the law and the prophets to support his teachings. This demonstrates the continuity between the old and new covenants, as Jesus fulfills the promises made to the people of Israel. As we delve into this chapter, we will gain a deeper understanding of the conflict between Jesus and the religious establishment, and the importance of true faith and obedience to God.
Matthew 22:1-14
Jesus presents the parable of the wedding feast in Matthew 22:1-14 to convey a powerful message about God’s invitation to His kingdom and the response of people to this invitation.
The parable begins with a king (representing God) who prepares a wedding feast for his son (representing Jesus). This wedding feast is a symbol of the kingdom of heaven that God offers to people through Jesus Christ. The king sends out his servants (representing prophets and messengers of God) to invite guests to the wedding feast, but they refuse to come. This rejection of the invitation by the initial guests symbolizes the rejection of God’s message by the Israelites and their leaders.
Upon being rejected, the king then sends his servants out to invite anyone they can find, both good and bad, to fill the wedding hall. This part of the parable signifies that the kingdom of heaven is open to all, regardless of their social status or background. It highlights God’s inclusivity and mercy towards all who are willing to accept His invitation.
However, the parable takes a dramatic turn when the king notices a man at the feast who is not dressed in wedding clothes. The king questions the man, and when he is speechless, the man is bound and thrown out into the darkness. This part of the parable emphasizes the importance of not only accepting God’s invitation but also living a life that reflects a genuine commitment to Him. The wedding clothes symbolize the righteousness and purity that come from living a life in alignment with God’s will.
This parable serves as a warning against those who may accept God’s invitation but do not truly repent and live according to His ways. It stresses the significance of true discipleship and the necessity of bearing fruits of faith in one’s life, as emphasized in other parts of the Bible such as in Matthew 7:21 where Jesus says, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. The parable of the wedding feast in Matthew 22:1-14 conveys the message of God’s inclusive invitation to His kingdom, the rejection by some, and the requirement for genuine repentance and obedience to God’s will for those who accept the invitation. It reminds believers of the need to not only accept God’s grace but also to live a transformed life that reflects a true commitment to Him.
Matthew 22:15-22
Jesus and the Pharisees, who were trying to trap Him with their questions, interact in Matthew 22:15-22. This passage begins by describing how the Pharisees plotted to entangle Jesus in His words. They sent their disciples, along with the Herodians, who were supporters of the Roman Empire, to question Jesus about paying taxes to Caesar. The intention behind this question was to force Jesus into a dilemma. If He said not to pay taxes, He would be seen as a rebel against Rome, but if He advocated for paying taxes, He might lose credibility among the Jewish people who resented Roman oppression.
Jesus, however, saw through their malicious intent and responded by asking for a denarius, the Roman coin used to pay the tax. He cleverly asked whose image and inscription were on the coin, to which they replied, “Caesar’s.” Jesus then famously said, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”
This response by Jesus carries profound meaning and has important implications. It teaches the principle of rendering unto earthly authorities what is due to them, while also emphasizing the higher allegiance and responsibility believers have towards God. Jesus does not promote rebellion against earthly rulers but rather encourages his followers to prioritize spiritual matters and their relationship with God above all else by acknowledging the authority of Caesar in tax matters.
This passage reflects Jesus’ wisdom in navigating complex situations and his ability to provide timeless teachings applicable to various contexts. It highlights the importance of discernment, integrity, and proper stewardship in dealing with both earthly obligations and spiritual duties.
The story also sheds light on the conflicting expectations and agendas of different groups during Jesus’ ministry. The Pharisees and Herodians, despite their differences, united in their attempt to trap Jesus, revealing the political and religious dynamics of the time. Jesus’ response showcases his divine insight and authority, reaffirming his role as the Son of God who transcends human divisions and schemes.
Furthermore, this passage resonates with other teachings of Jesus, such as his proclamation in Matthew 6:24 that one cannot serve both God and money. It emphasizes the need for believers to heed spiritual values above material concerns and not let worldly matters compromise their faith. The call to give to God what is God’s serves as a reminder of the ultimate priority Christians should have in honoring and serving God in all aspects of life. Matthew 22:15-22 captures a pivotal moment in Jesus’ ministry where his wisdom, authority, and teachings shine amidst the attempts to test and deceive him. It stands as a timeless lesson on the balance between earthly responsibilities and spiritual duties, affirming the ultimate allegiance believers ought to have towards God.
Matthew 22:23-33
The verse in Matthew 22:23-33 can be broken down into several important sections for thorough commentary.
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Verse 23-28: These verses depict the encounter between Jesus and the Sadducees who were known for their disbelief in the resurrection. They present a hypothetical scenario about marriage in the afterlife to Jesus, trying to test His knowledge and beliefs. The Sadducees’ question was not one of genuine inquiry but rather an attempt to trap Jesus in His teachings. They were hoping to discredit Him and His teachings. However, Jesus responds wisely by highlighting that in the resurrection, people will not marry or be given in marriage, but will be like angels in heaven. His response not only addresses the Sadducees’ specific question but also provides a deeper theological understanding of the afterlife and the spiritual realm.
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Jesus goes on to rebuke the Sadducees for their lack of understanding of Scripture in these verses. He points out that their error is rooted in their ignorance of the Scriptures and the power of God. Jesus emphasizes the importance of knowing the Scriptures and having faith in God’s power. This encounter with the Sadducees showcases Jesus’ wisdom, authority, and knowledge of the Scriptures. Jesus reaffirms the truth of the resurrection and the power of God to overcome even death by refuting the Sadducees’ twisted interpretation of the law.
The timeless message in these verses lies in the importance of knowing the Scriptures, having faith in God’s power, and understanding the deeper spiritual truths beyond the literal interpretations of the law. Jesus’ response to the Sadducees not only clarifies the misconception about marriage in the afterlife but also reinforces the belief in the resurrection and the eternal life promised to believers. This passage underscores the significance of being rooted in the Word of God and having a profound understanding of spiritual matters. It also reminds us of the authority of Jesus as the ultimate teacher and interpreter of God’s truth. The New Testament emphasizes the concept of resurrection and life after physical death in relation to other verses in the Bible. Jesus declares in John 11:25-26, “I am the resurrection and the life.” The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” This statement by Jesus further reinforces the idea that belief in Him leads to eternal life, transcending physical death and earthly limitations. The dialogue with the Sadducees serves to clarify misconceptions and deepen the disciples’ understanding of God’s plan for salvation and the afterlife.
Matthew 22:34-40
The Pharisees in Matthew 22:34-40 begin the section by plotting to trap Jesus by posing a question about the greatest commandment in the Law. This was a common strategy of the Pharisees in an attempt to discredit Jesus or catch him in a theological error. The Pharisees were a sect of Judaism known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and traditions, and they often clashed with Jesus over interpretations of the Law.
When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus responds by quoting from the Old Testament, specifically Deuteronomy 6:5, which says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” He then adds to this the command from Leviticus 19:18, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus combines these two commandments, emphasizing the importance of love for both God and neighbor.
This response by Jesus is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it shows his deep knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures. Jesus affirms the authority of the Jewish scriptures and demonstrates how they all point towards the importance of love by quoting from the Old Testament. Secondly, Jesus simplifies the complexities of the Law into these two overarching commands, highlighting the central theme of love that should guide all interactions and relationships.
This passage also highlights the interconnectedness of love for God and love for neighbor. Jesus makes it clear that these two commandments are inseparable; to truly love God is to also love our neighbors. This aligns with other teachings of Jesus where he emphasizes the importance of caring for others, showing compassion, and selflessly serving those around us. Jesus challenges the Pharisees’ legalistic approach to religion and redirects the focus towards genuine love and compassion.
The love for God and others that Jesus advocates for in this passage is a theme that reverberates throughout the entire Bible. God constantly calls His people in the Old Testament to love Him and to show love and justice to others, especially the marginalized. This call to love is further emphasized in the New Testament, where Jesus not only teaches about love but embodies it through His actions, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross. The apostles also echo this message, emphasizing the primacy of love in the Christian life (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). This passage serves as a foundational teaching on the centrality of love in the Christian faith. It challenges believers to examine their motives and actions, reminding them that all of God’s laws can be summarized by love – love for God and love for others. Christians fulfill the law and demonstrate their relationship with God through acts of love, kindness, and compassion towards their neighbors by adhering to these two great commandments.
Matthew 22:41-46
Jesus and the Pharisees have a significant exchange in Matthew 22:41-46. The section can be divided into two main parts: the question posed by Jesus to the Pharisees about the Messiah and the response of the Pharisees to Jesus.
First, Jesus asks the Pharisees a question, “What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?” This question is not merely a test of their knowledge but a pointer to a deeper truth. The Pharisees answer that the Messiah is the son of David. Passages like Isaiah 11:1 in Jewish tradition expected the Messiah to be a descendant of King David. Jesus uses this opportunity to challenge their understanding of the Messiah, leading them to consider a more profound reality beyond the physical lineage.
Jesus then quotes Psalm 110:1 to point out the complexity of the Messiah’s identity. He asks, “If then David calls him ‘Lord,’ how can he be his son?” This question unveils a mystery—that the Messiah is not only a human descendant of David but also divine, worthy of the title ‘Lord. Jesus not only corrects the Pharisees’ limited understanding but also asserts his own identity as the Messiah, who is both human and divine, the Son of God by doing so.
This passage holds timeless messages about the nature of Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God. Jesus exemplifies the importance of not limiting God to our preconceived notions by challenging the Pharisees’ conventional beliefs and revealing the deeper truth of his identity. The Messiah is not merely a political deliverer but a divine figure whose nature transcends human understanding. This challenges believers to seek a deeper understanding of Jesus and his role in their lives, beyond the expectations of the world.
Furthermore, this interaction highlights the authority of Jesus over traditional religious leaders. Jesus asserts his knowledge and wisdom as the true Son of God by posing a question that stumps the Pharisees and then using Scripture to reveal a higher truth. This challenges us to reflect on who Jesus is in our lives—whether we see him as a mere historical figure or as the Lord who deserves our complete allegiance and obedience. Jesus challenges religious leaders and societal norms to reveal deeper truths about himself and his kingdom when connecting this passage to other verses in the Bible. Peter declares Jesus as the Messiah in Matthew 16:13-20, to which Jesus responds by revealing his divine nature and the foundational role of Peter in the church. This continuity emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus not only as the Messiah but also as the Lord whose authority surpasses human traditions and limitations.
After Matthew 22
Jesus teaches about the kingdom of heaven through parables in this chapter, emphasizing the importance of love, faith, and obedience to God. He challenges the religious leaders of the time and warns against hypocrisy and self-righteousness. Jesus affirms the greatest commandments to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Let us reflect on the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 22, prioritizing our relationship with God above all else and showing love and compassion to those around us. We should strive to live out these commandments in our daily lives, seeking to honor God in all that we do. Jesus will continue to challenge the religious authorities and impart valuable lessons to his disciples in the following chapter.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.