How can we ensure we are "properly attired" for God's kingdom today? The Wedding Garment Picture “But when the king came in to see the guests, he spotted a man who was not wearing wedding clothes. ‘Friend,’ he asked, ‘how did you get in here without wedding clothes?’ But the man was speechless. Then the king told the servants, ‘Tie him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.” Why Clothing Matters in the Kingdom • The garment is not optional; the king himself inspects it. • It is the condition of entry, not social standing or past record. • Failure to wear it brings immediate exclusion—showing the seriousness God places on being properly attired. What the Garment Represents • Christ Himself: “Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 13:14). • His righteousness granted at conversion: “He has clothed me with garments of salvation” (Isaiah 61:10). • Visible, Spirit-produced character: “Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints” (Revelation 19:8). Putting On the Proper Attire 1. Receive the garment. • Salvation is by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). • No one stitches his own; the King supplies it. 2. Keep it clean. • Daily confession and repentance (1 John 1:9). • “Everyone who has this hope purifies himself, just as He is pure” (1 John 3:3). 3. Fasten every piece. • Compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience (Colossians 3:12). • Truth, righteousness, readiness—part of the armor of God (Ephesians 6:14-15). 4. Walk in the Spirit. • “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). • The Spirit produces love, joy, peace… (Galatians 5:22-23), the visible fabric of the garment. 5. Guard from stains. • Reject worldliness (James 1:27). • Choose companions, entertainment, and speech that honor the King (Ephesians 5:3-4). 6. Serve in the garment. • We are “created in Christ Jesus to do good works” (Ephesians 2:10). • Acts of mercy, witness, and generosity keep the fabric vibrant (Titus 2:11-14). Staying Dressed and Ready • Meet the King daily in Word and prayer; He adjusts any loose threads (Psalm 139:23-24). • Fellowship with other believers; encouragement helps prevent wardrobe failure (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Anticipate inspection—not with fear, but with eager expectation that the garment will shine (Philippians 2:15-16). A Foretaste of Glory “‘Hallelujah! For the Lord our God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him the glory. For the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready. She was given clothing of fine linen, bright and pure.’” That radiant moment begins now, as we gladly put on the wedding garment—Christ’s righteousness displayed in everyday, Spirit-empowered obedience. |
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