The phrase "The Man Who Married a Wife" is derived from a parable told by Jesus in the Gospel of Luke, specifically in Luke 14:15-24. This parable is often referred to as "The Parable of the Great Banquet" or "The Parable of the Great Supper." It is a account that Jesus uses to illustrate the kingdom of God and the responses of individuals to God's invitation.

Biblical Context

In Luke 14:16-20 , Jesus begins the parable: "A certain man prepared a great banquet and invited many guests. When it was time for the banquet, he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’ But one after another they all began to make excuses. The first one said, ‘I have bought a field and I need to go see it. Please excuse me.’ Another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to try them out. Please excuse me.’ Still another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’"

Interpretation and Themes

The man who married a wife represents one of the individuals who declined the invitation to the banquet. His excuse, like the others, is seen as a reflection of misplaced priorities and a lack of understanding of the significance of the invitation. In the cultural context of the time, marriage was a significant life event, and the man's excuse might seem reasonable. However, in the parable, it serves to highlight how personal commitments and earthly concerns can become obstacles to accepting God's invitation.

Theologically, this parable underscores the importance of prioritizing the kingdom of God above all else. The excuses given by the invitees, including the man who married a wife, symbolize the distractions and preoccupations that can prevent individuals from responding to God's call. The parable challenges believers to examine their own lives and consider what might be hindering their full participation in the kingdom.

Cultural and Historical Background

In ancient Jewish culture, marriage was a highly esteemed institution, and newlyweds were often given a period of exemption from certain social and religious obligations. Deuteronomy 24:5 states, "If a man is newly married, he must not go out with the army or be liable for any other duty. He is free to stay at home and bring joy to the wife he has married." This cultural understanding provides context for the man's excuse, yet it also serves to emphasize the radical nature of Jesus' teaching that the kingdom of God demands ultimate allegiance.

Application for Believers

For contemporary believers, the parable serves as a reminder to evaluate their own priorities and commitments. The man who married a wife represents the tendency to allow legitimate life responsibilities to overshadow spiritual obligations. Christians are encouraged to seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33) and to ensure that their earthly relationships and duties do not impede their spiritual growth and responsiveness to God's call.

In summary, "The Man Who Married a Wife" in the parable of the great banquet is a poignant illustration of the excuses that can keep individuals from fully embracing the kingdom of God. It calls believers to reflect on their own lives and to prioritize their relationship with God above all else.