You Have Been Invited
Introduction:
In
Luke 14, Jesus has been invited to eat at the home of a prominent Pharisee. Some
suspect that Jesus was the “guest of honor” here. Jesus does not take time off
to relax. Constantly looking for teaching opportunity, Jesus uses the occasion to
teach unforgettable lesson concerning salvation and what is to be expected in
the Kingdom of God today.
I. People are important to God.
A.
14:1-6 - Religious
persons can forget that people are important to God.
1.
Pharisees had
forgotten. Caught up in their “righteousness”.
B.
Issue here: Not
healing…but healing on Sabbath. 14:3, 5-6
1.
Pharisees
compiled list of 1521 different ways to break the Sabbath.
2.
None of this in
scripture. Pharisees – felt this how to please God.
3.
Pharisees cared
more about rules made by men than men made by God.
II. All People are Important to God.
A.
14:7-11 –
not only are people important to God – but all people are important!
1.
Many felt they
were more important than others there.
2.
14:11 –
prideful persons will come up short at eternity.
B.
14:12-14 –
Jesus continues to teach. Imagine the atmosphere as He speaks.
III. God extends His Invitation to ALL. What will
you do?
A.
14:15-16 –
the “man” represents God.
1.
Interesting how
God is preparing a banquet here. A
joyful, happy time.
2.
Isa. 55:2
– eat what is good, let your soul
delight in abundance.
B.
More insight on
how people were invited to social gatherings:
1.
Two invitations
given. First given in advance
– had date/time – giving guests time to schedule the event into
their life.
2.
Second given when
all was ready for the party to begin. (14:17)
3.
Making the
application to people of Jesus’ day – first invitation given through
Moses & prophets. Second invitation – coming through Jesus.
IV. People can refuse God’s invitation.
A.
We might think
people would enthusiastically respond to God’s invitation. Not so.
1.
14:18-20 –
some make excuses.
2.
Excuses were
pretexts – with some effort, these individuals could have rearranged
their schedule & attended.
B.
As we examine
14:18-20, I need you to focus on your life.
1.
Not a Christian,
delaying a decision, what excuses are you making?
2.
If you are a
Christian, and struggling with certain aspects of your service, what excuses
are you making?
C.
14:18 – we
can make excuses because we are preoccupied with things.
D.
14:19 – We
can place making a living over serving God and make excuses.
E.
14:20 –
first two excuses dealt with materialism. 3rd excuse has to do with
affections.
1.
With some,
family is more important than God. Mt. 10:37-39
F.
Many today,
refuse God’s invitation, or neglect spiritual responsibilities; because of
their own self interests & wants.
Conclusion:
A.
14:21-24 –
We can anger God with our excuses. Dual application: One to Israel. One to us.
B.
God wants His
house to be filled with those who want to be with Him!
C.
14:21-23 –
You are on God’s guest list & He wants you in heaven with Him.
1.
Will you come?