Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 22:3

Albert Barnes Commentary

Matthew 22:3

1798–1870
Presbyterian
Albert Barnes
Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes Commentary

Matthew 22:3

1798–1870
Presbyterian
SCRIPTURE

"and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the marriage feast: and they would not come." — Matthew 22:3 (ASV)

And sent forth his servants. These represent the messengers that God has sent to invite men to his kingdom.

To call them that were bidden. That is, to give notice to those who had previously been invited, that the feast was ready. It appears that there were two invitations, one considerably before the time, so that they might have an opportunity to prepare for it, and the other to give notice of the precise time when they were expected.

The wedding. The marriage feast. The same word in the original as in Matthew 22:2.

They would not come. They might have come if they chose, but they would not. So all the difficulty that sinners ever face regarding salvation is in the will. It is a fixed determination not to come and be saved.