The Invitation: The Parable of the Great Banquet

In this episode, Dr. John reflects on the Parable of the Great Banquet from Luke 14:12-24. Jesus challenges the idea of entitlement, showing that those who feel they deserve the best in life may miss out on the greatest invitation of all—the invitation to God's kingdom. The parable emphasizes that the invitation to the heavenly banquet is extended to those who might be overlooked in this world: the poor, the lame, the blind. Jesus warns that those who reject the invitation, consumed by earthly distractions, will miss out on eternal blessings. Dr. John encourages us to examine our own hearts and respond to God's invitation with humility and faith.

The Invitation: Invitations are usually a joy to receive. Birthdays, anniversaries, a coffee with a friend. Whether they are printed on embossed stationary or sent via a text, an invitation means that our presence is desired. In this 10-message series, Dr. John continues his study of Luke's gospel. In it, we hear Jesus' repeated invitation "to come." God desires our presence.