How does Matthew 22:14 relate to Ephesians 1:4 about being chosen? The Immediate Context of Matthew 22:14 Matthew 22 records Jesus’ parable of the wedding banquet. - The king represents God; the wedding feast pictures the Messianic kingdom. - Invitations (the “call”) go first to those expected to come (Israel’s leaders) and then to anyone found on the roads (Gentiles, outcasts). - Acceptance requires coming on the king’s terms—a proper wedding garment supplied by the king himself. - One man attends without that garment; he is bound and cast out. - Jesus ends with the verdict: “For many are called, but few are chosen.” Key Terms in the Parable - “Called” (Greek: klētos) – the outward, audible invitation of the gospel. - “Chosen” (Greek: eklektos) – the sovereign selection of those who will finally belong to Christ, manifested by their acceptance of the garment of righteousness (cf. Isaiah 61:10; Revelation 19:8). Ephesians 1:4—Election Before Time - God “chose us in Him before the foundation of the world.” - The choice is unconditional, rooted in God’s love, not human merit (cf. Romans 9:11). - The goal: that we be “holy and blameless” in His presence—exactly what the wedding garment symbolized. How the Two Verses Relate - Same actors: God calls; God chooses. - Sequence: 1. Outward call goes to “many” (Matthew 22:9-10; Revelation 22:17). 2. Inward, effectual call reaches the elect (John 6:37, 44). 3. Those chosen respond in faith and are clothed with Christ’s righteousness (Galatians 3:27). - Matthew emphasizes human responsibility—hear, come, wear the garment. - Ephesians highlights divine initiative—chosen “before the foundation of the world.” - Together they teach that salvation is wholly by grace yet never apart from a real, conscious response to the gospel (Acts 16:31). Supporting Passages - 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14—“God chose you…He called you through our gospel.” - John 15:16—“You did not choose Me, but I chose you.” - Romans 8:30—those He predestined He also called…glorified. Practical Takeaways - Proclaim the gospel freely; the call is broad. - Trust God’s electing grace; the harvest is certain (2 Timothy 2:10). - Examine yourself: have you put on Christ, the true wedding garment? (2 Corinthians 13:5) - Live “holy and blameless,” showing evidence of being among the chosen (1 Peter 1:15-16). |
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