Called But Not Chosen

Matthew 22

The scripture says in verse 14 for many are called but few are chosen. In this story heaven is compared to a king who wanted to celebrate his son's wedding by hosting a supper in the son's honor. He sent his servants to invite the citizens of the country to the palace. The people had only to come. Everything was furnished down to the clothing to wear.

It's probable that the people gave little thought to the king and his son during their normal lives. They never imagined they would be invited to their home. Still in spite of such an invitation verse 5 says they made light of it and offered excuses as to why they could not attend, of mention are their homes and their jobs. They even killed the messengers. In the end the king told his servants to open the invitation to everyone, good or bad, till the wedding was furnished with guests.

The celebration was about to begin and the king made his entrance. He saw a man who did not have on the garment that he had provided for each guest. This man foolishly thought it would be all right. However, he was cast out into outer darkness, a place of punishment because he did not follow the king's rules. You see, the king called many to the celebration, but only a few were chosen to attend. He could not choose those who refused to come.

The table of God is big enough for all of us. If our seat is not filled, it is our own fault. God has called each of us to the celebration. It too will be in honor of his Son Jesus. He's invited us to the kingdom, to a better place than we have now. He has supplied everything necessary to go, even the garment. The proper attire for this event is the garment of salvation. We are all equal in God's eyes. This is the garment all who attend must wear. Many have turned down the call, made light of it. They think they have no need of God. We must be careful. Do not let the blessings God has already given us come between us and God.

We cannot go to heaven on our own terms. We must wear this garment. It is God's way or no way. If you refuse you will not have entrance to the celebration, into heaven. He waits today. The garment is held up for you to come and put on. He can only choose you if you accept the invitation. Otherwise, you will be as the man who thought the king wouldn't notice his attire. You will be cast off into everlasting punishment. Called but not chosen.

We praise the Lord for the salvation of a young man in the service today.