Lutheran Lens Commentary: Matthew 22:1-14

Lutheran Lens Reading of Matthew 22:1-14

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage through the distinct lens of Law and Gospel. The parable of the wedding feast illustrates the Law in the rejection of the king’s invitation, exposing the stubbornness and sinfulness of the human heart — the old Adam. Yet, the Gospel breaks through in the king’s insistence on filling the banquet hall, prefiguring the grace that invites all to the feast of salvation through Christ. The unworthiness of the guests underscores our own unworthiness apart from Christ, emphasizing that inclusion in the kingdom is solely by grace. The man without a wedding garment illustrates the necessity of baptismal identity — being clothed in Christ’s righteousness, not our own works.

Key Language Decisions

The Greek term 'ἐκλεκτοί' (eklektoi) in verse 14, translated as 'chosen,' reflects the Lutheran emphasis on election by grace alone. The interplay between 'καλέω' (kaleō), meaning 'called,' and 'ἐκλεκτοί' underscores the distinction between God's general call and His specific election, emphasizing the doctrine of justification by faith alone. This choice of translation underscores our understanding that the call of the Gospel is universal, but effective only through faith granted by the Holy Spirit.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike Reformed traditions that may emphasize predestination in a way that diminishes the universality of the Gospel call, we hold that the invitation to the feast is genuinely extended to all, reflecting God's desire that all be saved. This contrasts with traditions like Roman Catholicism that might stress human cooperation with grace more prominently, whereas we emphasize the primacy of grace and faith alone as the means of reception.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we emphasize the radical nature of God's grace, which invites sinners — those deemed unworthy — to His banquet. A Lutheran pastor should underscore the necessity of being clothed in Christ's righteousness, received in baptism, as our entry into the feast. Congregants should be assured of their secure place at the table not by their works, but by God's unmerited favor. The Law's exposure of sin should lead us to gratitude for the Gospel's assurance of salvation, reminding us that our worthiness is found in Christ alone, not in our attempts at righteousness.

Cross-References: Isaiah 25:6-9; Romans 1:16-17; Ephesians 2:8-9; Revelation 19:9; Galatians 3:27

Doctrinal Connections: Law and Gospel; justification by faith alone; simul justus et peccator; baptismal identity; the theology of the cross