Matthew 22:11-13 – The Nazarene’s Commentary: King’s Inspection and Marriage Garments

Matthew 22:11-13 – King’s Inspection and Marriage Garments

MT22:11 “Now when the king arrived[1] to view[2] those reclining at the festival table he saw there a person without a wedding garment.[3] MT22:12 The king said to this person, ‘Friend,[4] how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ But, the person could not answer.[5] MT22:13 Then the king said to the servants,[6] ‘Bind both hands and feet and cast this person into the darkness outside.[7] There will be lamentation and grinding of teeth.’

*

[1] When the king arrived: This is the Parousia and the parousia-judgment. Note the “arrival” of the Most High in Daniel 7:22. Compare related parables at Matthew 24:44-25:46. Consider Daniel 12:1, 2; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 John 2:28; 1 John 4:17.

[2] To view: Or, MON: to inspect.

[3] Without a wedding garment: See Revelation 19:8. Like all weddings the invited guests dress appropriately to the occasion. This person dresses in such a way to make it obvious he is out of place at these festivities. Our dress often reveals something about us and our attitudes.

[4] Friend: Or, NW: Fellow.

[5] The person could not answer: Or, KJV: speechless; RHM: put to silence; KNX: made no reply; MON: lips were sealed.

[6] Servants: The Greek is DIAKONOIS and is often rendered “minister.” It is possible these are the “angels” of Matthew 13:41 and Matthew 25:31. Compare Hebrews 1:14.

[7] The darkness outside: Compare notes on Matthew 8:12, Matthew 13:42, Matthew 24:51, Matthew 25:30.

+

Preceding

Matthew 22:1-6 – The Nazarene’s Commentary: Parable of Invitation to a Marriage

Matthew 22:7-10 – The Nazarene’s Commentary: Invitations after City’s Destruction