Notes: November 3, 2009

Messages for the guests and for the host

Although not everyone had violated protocol, everyone needed to be reminded of the principle of humility.

Luke 14:7-11 — for the guests

  • Have you ever sat at the wrong table? Jesus noticed that at this dinner many (far too many) of the guests were trying, intentionally, to sit at the head table(s) (v. 7).
  • Jesus counseled against this practice, warning of the embarrassment that might result (v. 8-9).
  • To the contrary, Jesus counseled that one choose a less significant place and be delighted when asked to move to a better table (v. 10).
  • The principle? Exalt yourself and be abased; humble yourself and be exalted (v. 11).

Luke 14:12-14 — for the host

  • Whom should you invite to dinner?
  • Jesus counseled not to invite one’s friends, brethren, kinsmen, or rich neighbors who can reciprocate (v. 12).
  • To the contrary, one should invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, and the blind who cannot reciprocate. But God will (v. 13-14).

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