Luke 14:16

Luke 14:16, in plain English

Jesus starts a story: a man planned an incredible feast and invited a lot of guests. Everything was ready — but would the guests actually come?

Why it's here

This parable is Jesus's response to the guest who said how great it will be to eat at God's feast. Jesus is about to show that many who are invited won't bother showing up.

Who's speaking

Jesus is the storyteller, and the 'certain man' in the story represents God Himself.

Where it sits in the story

A grand party is planned, the food is ready, the invitations went out — but the twist is coming. Will the invited guests actually show up?

The scholarly reading

Jesus begins the Parable of the Great Banquet with a 'certain man' (anthrōpos tis) preparing a mega deipnon ('great dinner'). The dual-invitation system — an initial invitation followed by a summons when ready — reflects ancient Near Eastern custom.

Language and setting

This parable responds to the guest's beatitude (v.15) and parallels Matthew's Parable of the Wedding Feast (Matt 22:1-14), though with distinct Lukan emphases on social inclusion.

Voice

Jesus tells a parable, placing a wealthy host at the center who represents God extending His invitation to the kingdom feast.

Significance

Jesus launches a story: a man throws a grand banquet and sends out invitations — but the story is really about God's invitation to the kingdom and who actually accepts it.

14and you will be blessed. Since they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”

15When one of those reclining with Him heard this, he said to Jesus, “Blessed is everyone who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.”

16But Jesus replied, “A certain man prepared a great banquet and invited many guests.

17When it was time for the banquet, he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’

18But 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.’

Read all of Luke 14 — The invited guests make excuses, so the host sends servants into the streets and alleys. God's table will be full — just not with who you'd expect.