Definition: And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 22:3. It's a really interesting and slightly mysterious part of Jesus’ teachings! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Jesus is telling people to not answer the invitations to a wedding. Let’s unpack that a little bit: “Sent forth his servants…” : This refers to Jesus' followers – the people who were invited to the wedding. He was essentially saying, “We need your help.” “…to call them that were bidden to the wedding:” This is the key part. He’s asking them to specifically find and contact those individuals who were invited to attend. “and they would not come.” : This is the instruction. Jesus wants these people to not respond . What does this mean in a broader context? This verse has some layers of meaning, and it’s often interpreted as: A Test: It could be a test of obedience and faithfulness to Jesus. He's challenging them to show their commitment to him. A Warning: It might warn against being distracted or drawn away from their duties or commitments in life. It’s suggesting that focusing on other things can lead to neglecting what’s important. A Gentle Disappointment: It could even imply a gentle disappointment – that the invitation isn't as significant as it seems, and perhaps they shouldn't waste time trying to convince someone who isn’t interested. It's a complex verse, but its core message is about prioritizing what truly matters. Do you want me to: Explain any of this further? Provide more context around the wedding in the Bible? Discuss potential interpretations of this verse?