Lessons on Humility and Social Status from Luke 14

 
Seeking Social Status
Seeking Social Status
Luke 14:1-6
Luke 14:1-6
 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a
 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a
prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched. 
prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched. 
There in
There in
front of him was a man suffering from dropsy. 
front of him was a man suffering from dropsy. 
Jesus asked the
Jesus asked the
Pharisees and experts in the law, ‘Is it lawful to heal on the
Pharisees and experts in the law, ‘Is it lawful to heal on the
Sabbath or not?’ 
Sabbath or not?’ 
But they remained silent. So taking hold of the
But they remained silent. So taking hold of the
man, he healed him and sent him away.
man, he healed him and sent him away.
Then he asked them, ‘If one of you has a son or an ox that falls
Then he asked them, ‘If one of you has a son or an ox that falls
into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it
into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it
out?’ 
out?’ 
And they had nothing to say.
And they had nothing to say.
Vs 7-14
Vs 7-14
 When he noticed how the guests picked the places of honour at
 When he noticed how the guests picked the places of honour at
the table, he told them this parable: 8 ‘When someone invites you
the table, he told them this parable: 8 ‘When someone invites you
to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honour, for a person
to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honour, for a person
more distinguished than you may have been invited. 9 If so, the
more distinguished than you may have been invited. 9 If so, the
host who invited both of you will come and say to you, “Give this
host who invited both of you will come and say to you, “Give this
person your seat.” Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least
person your seat.” Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least
important place. 10 But when you are invited, take the lowest
important place. 10 But when you are invited, take the lowest
place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, “Friend,
place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, “Friend,
move up to a better place.” Then you will be honoured in the
move up to a better place.” Then you will be honoured in the
presence of all the other guests. 11 For all those who exalt
presence of all the other guests. 11 For all those who exalt
themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves
themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves
will be exalted.’
will be exalted.’
‘When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends,
‘When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends,
your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbours;
your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbours;
if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be
if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be
repaid. 
repaid. 
13 
13 
But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the
But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the
crippled, the lame, the blind, 
crippled, the lame, the blind, 
14 
14 
and you will be blessed.
and you will be blessed.
Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the
Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the
resurrection of the righteous.’
resurrection of the righteous.’
Vs 15-24
Vs 15-24
When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to
When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to
Jesus, ‘Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the
Jesus, ‘Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the
kingdom of God.’
kingdom of God.’
16 
16 
Jesus replied: ‘A certain man was preparing a great banquet
Jesus replied: ‘A certain man was preparing a great banquet
and invited many guests. 
and invited many guests. 
17 
17 
At the time of the banquet he sent
At the time of the banquet he sent
his servant to tell those who had been invited, “Come, for
his servant to tell those who had been invited, “Come, for
everything is now ready.”
everything is now ready.”
18 
18 
‘But they all alike began to make
‘But they all alike began to make
excuses. The first said, “I have just bought a field, and I must go
excuses. The first said, “I have just bought a field, and I must go
and see it. Please excuse me.”
and see it. Please excuse me.”
19 
19 
‘Another said, “I have just
‘Another said, “I have just
bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out.
bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out.
Please excuse me.”
Please excuse me.”
20 
20 
‘Still another said, “I have just got married, so I can’t come.”
‘Still another said, “I have just got married, so I can’t come.”
The servant came back and reported this to his master.
The servant came back and reported this to his master.
Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his
Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his
servant, “Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town
servant, “Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town
and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.”
and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.”
22 
22 
‘“Sir,” the servant said, “what you ordered has been done, but
‘“Sir,” the servant said, “what you ordered has been done, but
there is still room.”
there is still room.”
23 
23 
‘Then the master told his servant, “Go out to the roads and
‘Then the master told his servant, “Go out to the roads and
country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be
country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be
full. 
full. 
24 
24 
I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get
I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get
a taste of my banquet.”’
a taste of my banquet.”’
Luke 11:43 Woe to you Pharisees, because you love the most
Luke 11:43 Woe to you Pharisees, because you love the most
important seats in the synagogues and respectful greetings in the
important seats in the synagogues and respectful greetings in the
marketplaces.
marketplaces.
Matthew 23:5-7  Everything they do is done for men to see:  They
Matthew 23:5-7  Everything they do is done for men to see:  They
make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments
make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments
long; they love the place of honour at banquets and the most
long; they love the place of honour at banquets and the most
important seats in the synagogues, they love to be greeted in the
important seats in the synagogues, they love to be greeted in the
marketplaces and to have men call them ‘Rabbi’.
marketplaces and to have men call them ‘Rabbi’.
Status as Authorities on Law keeping
Status as Authorities on Law keeping
Jesus threatened their social status
Jesus threatened their social status
Luke 14:1-6
Luke 14:1-6
 
 
One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a
One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a
prominent Pharisee, he was being 
prominent Pharisee, he was being 
carefully watched
carefully watched
There in
There in
front of him was a man suffering from dropsy. 
front of him was a man suffering from dropsy. 
Jesus asked the
Jesus asked the
Pharisees and experts in the law, ‘Is it lawful to heal on the
Pharisees and experts in the law, ‘Is it lawful to heal on the
Sabbath or not?’ 
Sabbath or not?’ 
But they remained silent. So taking hold of the
But they remained silent. So taking hold of the
man, he healed him and sent him away.
man, he healed him and sent him away.
Then he asked them, ‘If one of you has a son or an ox that falls
Then he asked them, ‘If one of you has a son or an ox that falls
into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it
into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it
out?’ 
out?’ 
And they had nothing to say.
And they had nothing to say.
Luke 14:1-6
Luke 14:1-6
 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a
 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a
prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched. 
prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched. 
There in
There in
front of him was a man suffering from dropsy. 
front of him was a man suffering from dropsy. 
Jesus asked the
Jesus asked the
Pharisees and experts in the law, ‘Is it lawful to heal on the
Pharisees and experts in the law, ‘Is it lawful to heal on the
Sabbath or not?’ 
Sabbath or not?’ 
But they remained silent. So taking hold of the
But they remained silent. So taking hold of the
man, he healed him and sent him away.
man, he healed him and sent him away.
Then he asked them, ‘If one of you has a son or an ox that falls
Then he asked them, ‘If one of you has a son or an ox that falls
into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it
into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it
out?’ 
out?’ 
And they had nothing to say.
And they had nothing to say.
Luke 14:1-6
Luke 14:1-6
 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a
 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a
prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched. 2 There in
prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched. 2 There in
front of him was a man suffering from dropsy.
front of him was a man suffering from dropsy.
 
 
Jesus asked the
Jesus asked the
Pharisees and experts in the law, ‘Is it lawful to heal on the
Pharisees and experts in the law, ‘Is it lawful to heal on the
Sabbath or not?’ 4 But they remained silent. So taking hold of
Sabbath or not?’ 4 But they remained silent. So taking hold of
the man, he healed him and sent him away.
the man, he healed him and sent him away.
5 Then he asked them, ‘If one of you has a son or an ox that falls
5 Then he asked them, ‘If one of you has a son or an ox that falls
into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it
into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it
out
out
?’
?’
 
 
And they had nothing to say.
And they had nothing to say.
Luke 14:1-6
Luke 14:1-6
 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a
 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a
prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched. 2 There in
prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched. 2 There in
front of him was a man suffering from dropsy.
front of him was a man suffering from dropsy.
 
 
3 Jesus asked the
3 Jesus asked the
Pharisees and experts in the law, ‘Is it lawful to heal on the
Pharisees and experts in the law, ‘Is it lawful to heal on the
Sabbath or not?’ 4 But they remained silent. So taking hold of
Sabbath or not?’ 4 But they remained silent. So taking hold of
the man, he healed him and sent him away.
the man, he healed him and sent him away.
5 Then he asked them, ‘If one of you has a son or an ox that falls
5 Then he asked them, ‘If one of you has a son or an ox that falls
into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it
into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it
out?’ 
out?’ 
And they had nothing to say.
And they had nothing to say.
1.  Status Protection VS 1-6
1.  Status Protection VS 1-6
Pharisees, who invited Jesus to table fellowship to discredit him
Pharisees, who invited Jesus to table fellowship to discredit him
to protect their social status, were left speechless after Jesus
to protect their social status, were left speechless after Jesus
skillfully defended Sabbath healing as fulfillment of God’s saving
skillfully defended Sabbath healing as fulfillment of God’s saving
purposes.
purposes.
Those whose social status with others is threatened by Jesus’
Those whose social status with others is threatened by Jesus’
disciple(s) will watch for opportunities to discredit said disciple(s)
disciple(s) will watch for opportunities to discredit said disciple(s)
in order to protect their status with or over others.
in order to protect their status with or over others.
What are some possible scenarios in which people may feel
What are some possible scenarios in which people may feel
their social status with others is being diminished or
their social status with others is being diminished or
threatened by Jesus’ disciples fulfilling God’s saving
threatened by Jesus’ disciples fulfilling God’s saving
purposes?
purposes?
What things could they try to do to protect or regain their
What things could they try to do to protect or regain their
influence?
influence?
Why did Jesus go to the dinner?
Why did Jesus go to the dinner?
Vs 7-14 When he noticed how the guests picked the places of
Vs 7-14 When he noticed how the guests picked the places of
honour at the table, 
honour at the table, 
he told them this parable: 8 ‘When
he told them this parable: 8 ‘When
someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of
someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of
honour, for a person more distinguished than you may have
honour, for a person more distinguished than you may have
been invited. 9 If so, the host who invited both of you will come
been invited. 9 If so, the host who invited both of you will come
and say to you, “Give this person your seat.” Then, humiliated,
and say to you, “Give this person your seat.” Then, humiliated,
you will have to take the least important place. 10 But when you
you will have to take the least important place. 10 But when you
are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host
are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host
comes, he will say to you, “Friend, move up to a better place.”
comes, he will say to you, “Friend, move up to a better place.”
Then you will be honoured in the presence of all the other
Then you will be honoured in the presence of all the other
guests. 11 For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled,
guests. 11 For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled,
and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
Invitations were only given after careful thought
Exclusive not inclusive gatherings where status increased or
at least maintained
Vs 7-14 
Vs 7-14 
When he noticed how the guests picked the places of
When he noticed how the guests picked the places of
honour at the table, he told them this parable: 8 ‘
honour at the table, he told them this parable: 8 ‘
When
When
someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of
someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of
honour, for a person more distinguished than you may have
honour, for a person more distinguished than you may have
been invited. 9 If so, the host who invited both of you will come
been invited. 9 If so, the host who invited both of you will come
and say to you, “Give this person your seat.” Then, humiliated,
and say to you, “Give this person your seat.” Then, humiliated,
you will have to take the least important place. 10 But when you
you will have to take the least important place. 10 But when you
are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host
are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host
comes, he will say to you, “Friend, move up to a better place.”
comes, he will say to you, “Friend, move up to a better place.”
Then you will be honoured in the presence of all the other
Then you will be honoured in the presence of all the other
guests
guests
. 
. 
11 For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled,
11 For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled,
and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
Vs 7-14 When he noticed how the guests picked the places of
Vs 7-14 When he noticed how the guests picked the places of
honour at the table, he told them this parable: 8 ‘When
honour at the table, he told them this parable: 8 ‘When
someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of
someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of
honour, for a person more distinguished than you may have
honour, for a person more distinguished than you may have
been invited. 9 If so, the host who invited both of you will come
been invited. 9 If so, the host who invited both of you will come
and say to you, “Give this person your seat.” Then, humiliated,
and say to you, “Give this person your seat.” Then, humiliated,
you will have to take the least important place. 10 But when you
you will have to take the least important place. 10 But when you
are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host
are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host
comes, he will say to you, “Friend, move up to a better place.”
comes, he will say to you, “Friend, move up to a better place.”
Then you will be honoured in the presence of all the other
Then you will be honoured in the presence of all the other
guests. 
guests. 
11 For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled,
11 For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled,
and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
Reversal of status -Simeon Luke 2
‘When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends,
‘When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends,
your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbours; if
your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbours; if
you do, they may invite you back and 
you do, they may invite you back and 
so you will be repaid
so you will be repaid
13 
13 
But
But
when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame,
when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame,
the blind, 
the blind, 
14 
14 
and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay
and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay
you, you will be 
you, you will be 
repaid at the resurrection of the righteous
repaid at the resurrection of the righteous
.’
.’
Loftier honour/status bestowed by God
Kingdom of God dining etiquette in response to God’s mercy
Invitation of those without any 
social currency
Abandonment of seeking honour from men to fulfill mission
2.  Status Promotion VS 7-14
2.  Status Promotion VS 7-14
Jesus taught the posturing Pharisees that heavenly honour
Jesus taught the posturing Pharisees that heavenly honour
awaits those who, in response to the good news, abandon
awaits those who, in response to the good news, abandon
seeking worldly status to become socially inclusive (for the
seeking worldly status to become socially inclusive (for the
Gospel’s sake).
Gospel’s sake).
Jesus’ disciples abandon divisive social posturing to actively
Jesus’ disciples abandon divisive social posturing to actively
engage with those who have no social currency knowing God will
engage with those who have no social currency knowing God will
bestow a much loftier enduring honour.
bestow a much loftier enduring honour.
Pattern for disciple-making
Who in the community around this church has little social
Who in the community around this church has little social
currency that we could be proactively engaging for the Gospel’s
currency that we could be proactively engaging for the Gospel’s
sake?
sake?
What about those who have social currency?
What about those who have social currency?
2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some
2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some
understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting
understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting
anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
2.  Status Promotion VS 7-14
2.  Status Promotion VS 7-14
Jesus taught the posturing Pharisees that heavenly honour
Jesus taught the posturing Pharisees that heavenly honour
awaits those who, in response to the good news, abandon
awaits those who, in response to the good news, abandon
seeking worldly status to become socially inclusive (for the
seeking worldly status to become socially inclusive (for the
Gospel’s sake).
Gospel’s sake).
Pursuit of worldly status keeps people from finding the
Narrow door
Invite people to abandon posturing 
f
f
or worldly status
2.  Status Promotion VS 7-14
2.  Status Promotion VS 7-14
Jesus taught the posturing Pharisees that heavenly honour
Jesus taught the posturing Pharisees that heavenly honour
awaits those who, in response to the good news, abandon
awaits those who, in response to the good news, abandon
seeking worldly status to become socially inclusive (for the
seeking worldly status to become socially inclusive (for the
Gospel’s sake).
Gospel’s sake).
Given the opportunity, Jesus’ disciples seek to redirect those
Given the opportunity, Jesus’ disciples seek to redirect those
caught up in social status seeking towards seeking the loftier
caught up in social status seeking towards seeking the loftier
status God gives.
status God gives.
After gaining some trust with those caught up in the pursuit of
After gaining some trust with those caught up in the pursuit of
worldly status, how would you challenge them to abandon that
worldly status, how would you challenge them to abandon that
pursuit for the honour God bestows in Christ?
pursuit for the honour God bestows in Christ?
Mark 8:36
‘What good is it for someone to gain the whole
world, yet forfeit their soul?’
1 Cor. 1:26
Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when
you were called. Not many of you were wise by
human standards; not many were influential; not
many were of noble birth.
Matthew 19:24
‘Again I tell you, it is
easier for a camel to go
through the eye of a
needle than for
someone who is rich to
enter the kingdom of
God.’
Vs 15-24
Vs 15-24
When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to
When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to
Jesus, ‘
Jesus, ‘
Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the
Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the
kingdom of God
kingdom of God
.’
.’
    16 
    16 
Jesus replied: ‘A certain man was preparing a great banquet
Jesus replied: ‘A certain man was preparing a great banquet
and invited many guests. 
and invited many guests. 
17 
17 
At the time of the banquet he sent
At the time of the banquet he sent
his servant to tell those who had been invited, “Come, for
his servant to tell those who had been invited, “Come, for
everything is now ready.”
everything is now ready.”
18 
18 
‘But they all alike began to make
‘But they all alike began to make
excuses. The first said, “I have just bought a field, and I must go
excuses. The first said, “I have just bought a field, and I must go
and see it. Please excuse me.”
and see it. Please excuse me.”
19 
19 
‘Another said, “I have just
‘Another said, “I have just
bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out.
bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out.
Please excuse me.”
Please excuse me.”
20 
20 
‘Still another said, “I have just got married, so I can’t come.”
‘Still another said, “I have just got married, so I can’t come.”
Vs 15-24
Vs 15-24
When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to
When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to
Jesus, ‘Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the
Jesus, ‘Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the
kingdom of God.’
kingdom of God.’
    16 
    16 
Jesus replied: ‘A certain man was preparing 
Jesus replied: ‘A certain man was preparing 
a great banquet
a great banquet
and invited many guests
and invited many guests
17 
17 
At the time of the banquet he sent
At the time of the banquet he sent
his servant to tell those who had been invited, “Come, for
his servant to tell those who had been invited, “Come, for
everything is now ready.”
everything is now ready.”
18 
18 
‘But they all alike began to make
‘But they all alike began to make
excuses. The first said, “I have just bought a field, and I must go
excuses. The first said, “I have just bought a field, and I must go
and see it. Please excuse me.”
and see it. Please excuse me.”
19 
19 
‘Another said, “I have just
‘Another said, “I have just
bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out.
bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out.
Please excuse me.”
Please excuse me.”
20 
20 
‘Still another said, “I have just got married, so I can’t come.”
‘Still another said, “I have just got married, so I can’t come.”
Vs 15-24
Vs 15-24
When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to
When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to
Jesus, ‘Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the
Jesus, ‘Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the
kingdom of God.’
kingdom of God.’
    16 
    16 
Jesus replied: ‘A certain man was preparing a great banquet
Jesus replied: ‘A certain man was preparing a great banquet
and invited many guests. 
and invited many guests. 
17 
17 
 At the time of the banquet he sent
 At the time of the banquet he sent
his servant to tell those who had been invited, “
his servant to tell those who had been invited, “
Come, for
Come, for
everything is now ready.”
everything is now ready.”
18 
18 
‘But they all alike began to make
‘But they all alike began to make
excuses. The first said, “I have just bought a field, and I must go
excuses. The first said, “I have just bought a field, and I must go
and see it. Please excuse me.”
and see it. Please excuse me.”
19 
19 
‘Another said, “I have just
‘Another said, “I have just
bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out.
bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out.
Please excuse me.”
Please excuse me.”
20 
20 
‘Still another said, “I have just got married, so I can’t come
‘Still another said, “I have just got married, so I can’t come
.”
.”
The servant came back and reported this to his master.
The servant came back and reported this to his master.
    Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his
    Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his
servant, “
servant, “
Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town
Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town
and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame
and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame
.”
.”
22 
22 
‘“Sir,” the servant said, “what you ordered has been done, but
‘“Sir,” the servant said, “what you ordered has been done, but
there is still room.”
there is still room.”
23 
23 
‘Then the master told his servant, “Go out to the roads and
‘Then the master told his servant, “Go out to the roads and
country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be
country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be
full. 
full. 
24 
24 
I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get
I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get
a taste of my banquet.”’
a taste of my banquet.”’
The servant came back and reported this to his master.
The servant came back and reported this to his master.
    Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his
    Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his
servant, “
servant, “
Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town
Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town
and 
and 
bring in 
bring in 
the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame
the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame
.”
.”
22 
22 
‘“Sir,” the servant said, “what you ordered has been done, but
‘“Sir,” the servant said, “what you ordered has been done, but
there is still room.”
there is still room.”
23 
23 
‘Then the master told his servant, “
‘Then the master told his servant, “
Go out to the roads and
Go out to the roads and
country lanes and 
country lanes and 
make them come 
make them come 
in, so that my house will be
in, so that my house will be
full
full
24 
24 
I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get
I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get
a taste of my banquet.”’
a taste of my banquet.”’
The servant came back and reported this to his master.
The servant came back and reported this to his master.
    Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his
    Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his
servant, “Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town
servant, “Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town
and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.”
and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.”
22 ‘“Sir,” the servant said, “what you ordered has been done,
22 ‘“Sir,” the servant said, “what you ordered has been done,
but there is still room.”
but there is still room.”
23 ‘Then the master told his servant, “Go out to the roads and
23 ‘Then the master told his servant, “Go out to the roads and
country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be
country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be
full. 
full. 
24 
24 
I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get
I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get
a taste of my banquet
a taste of my banquet
.”’
.”’
Parable of Kingdom of God?
2.  Status Promotion VS 7-14
2.  Status Promotion VS 7-14
Jesus’ story tells of one who responds to his teaching to abandon
Jesus’ story tells of one who responds to his teaching to abandon
social posturing and proactively embrace socially inclusive table
social posturing and proactively embrace socially inclusive table
fellowship, a fellowship social snobs would never participate in.
fellowship, a fellowship social snobs would never participate in.
The fear of committing social suicide is a barrier status seekers
The fear of committing social suicide is a barrier status seekers
must overcome in order to seek Jesus and become part of his
must overcome in order to seek Jesus and become part of his
inclusive community alongside social losers and outcasts.
inclusive community alongside social losers and outcasts.
Prayer
Prayer
Loving Service
Loving Service
Inviting
Inviting
Sharing Testimony
Sharing Testimony
Explaining Gospel
Explaining Gospel
Answering questions
Answering questions
Call to Commitment
Call to Commitment
Curiosity
Curiosity
Open to change
Open to change
Seeking after God
Seeking after God
Entering Kingdom
Entering Kingdom
B
e
l
i
e
v
e
r
s
 
R
o
l
e
s
Trust Believer
Trust Believer
Disinterest /Mistrust
Disinterest /Mistrust
T
h
r
e
s
h
o
l
d
s
 
t
o
 
C
r
o
s
s
Friendship
Friendship
Prayer
Prayer
Loving Service
Loving Service
Inviting
Inviting
Sharing Testimony
Sharing Testimony
Explaining Gospel
Explaining Gospel
Answering questions
Answering questions
Call to Commitment
Call to Commitment
Curiosity
Curiosity
Open to change
Open to change
Seeking after God
Seeking after God
Entering Kingdom
Entering Kingdom
B
e
l
i
e
v
e
r
s
 
R
o
l
e
s
Trust Believer
Trust Believer
Disinterest /Mistrust
Disinterest /Mistrust
T
h
r
e
s
h
o
l
d
s
 
t
o
 
C
r
o
s
s
Friendship
Friendship
Proactive social connections with those with little social
currency, although creating an additional hurdle for
socially elite seekers, is a non-negotiable requirement of
making mature multiplying disciples.
Status seeking part of fallen human nature
Counter culture to inclusive nature of God’s Kingdom
What about us?
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In Luke 14, Jesus shares teachings on humility and social status through parables and interactions with guests at a feast. He emphasizes the importance of humility, genuine generosity, and inclusivity, illustrating that true honor comes from humility and serving others selflessly rather than seeking recognition or status. These lessons encourage us to prioritize kindness, humility, and inclusivity in our interactions and generosity towards those who cannot repay us.


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  1. Seeking Social Status

  2. Luke 14:1-6 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched.2There in front of him was a man suffering from dropsy. 3Jesus asked the Pharisees and experts in the law, Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath or not? 4But they remained silent. So taking hold of the man, he healed him and sent him away. 5Then he asked them, If one of you has a son or an ox that falls into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it out? 6And they had nothing to say.

  3. Vs 7-14 When he noticed how the guests picked the places of honour at the table, he told them this parable: 8 When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honour, for a person more distinguished than you may have been invited. 9 If so, the host who invited both of you will come and say to you, Give this person your seat. Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least important place. 10 But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, Friend, move up to a better place. Then you will be honoured in the presence of all the other guests. 11 For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

  4. When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbours; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid.13But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind,14and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.

  5. Vs 15-24 When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God. 16Jesus replied: A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests.17At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, Come, for everything is now ready. 18 But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me. 19 Another said, I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me. 20 Still another said, I have just got married, so I can t come.

  6. The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame. 22 Sir, the servant said, what you ordered has been done, but there is still room. 23 Then the master told his servant, Go out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full.24I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.

  7. Luke 11:43 Woe to you Pharisees, because you love the most important seats in the synagogues and respectful greetings in the marketplaces. Matthew 23:5-7 Everything they do is done for men to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honour at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues, they love to be greeted in the marketplaces and to have men call them Rabbi . Status as Authorities on Law keeping Jesus threatened their social status

  8. Luke 14:1-6 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched.2There in front of him was a man suffering from dropsy.3Jesus asked the Pharisees and experts in the law, Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath or not? 4But they remained silent. So taking hold of the man, he healed him and sent him away. 5Then he asked them, If one of you has a son or an ox that falls into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it out? 6And they had nothing to say.

  9. Luke 14:1-6 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched.2There in front of him was a man suffering from dropsy.3Jesus asked the Pharisees and experts in the law, Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath or not? 4But they remained silent. So taking hold of the man, he healed him and sent him away. 5Then he asked them, If one of you has a son or an ox that falls into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it out? 6And they had nothing to say.

  10. Luke 14:1-6 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched. 2 There in front of him was a man suffering from dropsy.3Jesus asked the Pharisees and experts in the law, Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath or not? 4 But they remained silent. So taking hold of the man, he healed him and sent him away. 5 Then he asked them, If one of you has a son or an ox that falls into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it out? 6And they had nothing to say.

  11. Luke 14:1-6 One Sabbath, when Jesus went to eat in the house of a prominent Pharisee, he was being carefully watched. 2 There in front of him was a man suffering from dropsy. 3 Jesus asked the Pharisees and experts in the law, Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath or not? 4 But they remained silent. So taking hold of the man, he healed him and sent him away. 5 Then he asked them, If one of you has a son or an ox that falls into a well on the Sabbath day, will you not immediately pull it out? 6And they had nothing to say.

  12. 1. Status Protection VS 1-6 Pharisees, who invited Jesus to table fellowship to discredit him to protect their social status, were left speechless after Jesus skillfully defended Sabbath healing as fulfillment of God s saving purposes. Those whose social status with others is threatened by Jesus disciple(s) will watch for opportunities to discredit said disciple(s) in order to protect their status with or over others.

  13. What are some possible scenarios in which people may feel their social status with others is being diminished or threatened by Jesus disciples fulfilling God s saving purposes? What things could they try to do to protect or regain their influence?

  14. Why did Jesus go to the dinner?

  15. Invitations were only given after careful thought Exclusive not inclusive gatherings where status increased or at least maintained Vs 7-14 When he noticed how the guests picked the places of honour at the table, he told them this parable: 8 When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honour, for a person more distinguished than you may have been invited. 9 If so, the host who invited both of you will come and say to you, Give this person your seat. Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least important place. 10 But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, Friend, move up to a better place. Then you will be honoured in the presence of all the other guests. 11 For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

  16. Vs 7-14 When he noticed how the guests picked the places of honour at the table, he told them this parable: 8 When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honour, for a person more distinguished than you may have been invited. 9 If so, the host who invited both of you will come and say to you, Give this person your seat. Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least important place. 10 But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, Friend, move up to a better place. Then you will be honoured in the presence of all the other guests. 11 For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

  17. Vs 7-14 When he noticed how the guests picked the places of honour at the table, he told them this parable: 8 When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honour, for a person more distinguished than you may have been invited. 9 If so, the host who invited both of you will come and say to you, Give this person your seat. Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least important place. 10 But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, Friend, move up to a better place. Then you will be honoured in the presence of all the other guests. 11 For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Reversal of status -Simeon Luke 2

  18. When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbours; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid.13But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind,14and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous. Kingdom of God dining etiquette in response to God s mercy Invitation of those without any social currency Abandonment of seeking honour from men to fulfill mission Loftier honour/status bestowed by God

  19. 2. Status Promotion VS 7-14 Jesus taught the posturing Pharisees that heavenly honour awaits those who, in response to the good news, abandon seeking worldly status to become socially inclusive (for the Gospel s sake). Pattern for disciple-making Jesus disciples abandon divisive social posturing to actively engage with those who have no social currency knowing God will bestow a much loftier enduring honour.

  20. Who in the community around this church has little social currency that we could be proactively engaging for the Gospel s sake? What about those who have social currency? 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

  21. 2. Status Promotion VS 7-14 Jesus taught the posturing Pharisees that heavenly honour awaits those who, in response to the good news, abandon seeking worldly status to become socially inclusive (for the Gospel s sake). Pursuit of worldly status keeps people from finding the Narrow door Invite people to abandon posturing for worldly status

  22. 2. Status Promotion VS 7-14 Jesus taught the posturing Pharisees that heavenly honour awaits those who, in response to the good news, abandon seeking worldly status to become socially inclusive (for the Gospel s sake). Given the opportunity, Jesus disciples seek to redirect those caught up in social status seeking towards seeking the loftier status God gives. After gaining some trust with those caught up in the pursuit of worldly status, how would you challenge them to abandon that pursuit for the honour God bestows in Christ?

  23. Mark 8:36 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? 1 Cor. 1:26 Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth.

  24. Matthew 19:24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.

  25. Vs 15-24 When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God. 16Jesus replied: A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests.17At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, Come, for everything is now ready. 18 But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me. 19 Another said, I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me. 20 Still another said, I have just got married, so I can t come.

  26. Vs 15-24 When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God. 16Jesus replied: A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests.17At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, Come, for everything is now ready. 18 But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me. 19 Another said, I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me. 20 Still another said, I have just got married, so I can t come.

  27. Vs 15-24 When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God. 16Jesus replied: A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests.17 At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, Come, for everything is now ready. 18 But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me. 19 Another said, I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me. 20 Still another said, I have just got married, so I can t come.

  28. The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame. 22 Sir, the servant said, what you ordered has been done, but there is still room. 23 Then the master told his servant, Go out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full.24I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.

  29. The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame. 22 Sir, the servant said, what you ordered has been done, but there is still room. 23 Then the master told his servant, Go out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full.24I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.

  30. The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame. 22 Sir, the servant said, what you ordered has been done, but there is still room. 23 Then the master told his servant, Go out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full.24I tell you, not one of those men who were invited will get a taste of my banquet. Parable of Kingdom of God?

  31. 2. Status Promotion VS 7-14 Jesus story tells of one who responds to his teaching to abandon social posturing and proactively embrace socially inclusive table fellowship, a fellowship social snobs would never participate in. The fear of committing social suicide is a barrier status seekers must overcome in order to seek Jesus and become part of his inclusive community alongside social losers and outcasts.

  32. Thresholds to Cross Believers Roles Prayer Prayer Friendship Friendship Disinterest /Mistrust Disinterest /Mistrust Trust Believer Trust Believer Loving Service Loving Service Inviting Inviting Sharing Testimony Sharing Testimony Explaining Gospel Explaining Gospel Answering questions Answering questions Call to Commitment Call to Commitment Curiosity Curiosity Open to change Open to change Seeking after God Seeking after God Entering Kingdom Entering Kingdom

  33. Thresholds to Cross Believers Roles Prayer Prayer Friendship Friendship Disinterest /Mistrust Disinterest /Mistrust Trust Believer Trust Believer Loving Service Loving Service Inviting Inviting Sharing Testimony Sharing Testimony Explaining Gospel Explaining Gospel Answering questions Answering questions Call to Commitment Call to Commitment Curiosity Curiosity Open to change Open to change Seeking after God Seeking after God Entering Kingdom Entering Kingdom

  34. Proactive social connections with those with little social currency, although creating an additional hurdle for socially elite seekers, is a non-negotiable requirement of making mature multiplying disciples. Status seeking part of fallen human nature Counter culture to inclusive nature of God s Kingdom What about us?

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