Jesus continued his parable, “The Great Banquet,” explaining what was happening right before the established elite’s eyes and repeating the ancient prophets’ words concerning what was to come.
The servant in the parable had just reported to his master the absentee excuses of those who were invited to the banquet. The master, who owned a great house, became angry. The master’s words to his servant, Jesus picked directly out prophecy. (Isaiah 29:18-10; 35:5-6; 61:1; Deut. 18:15 and Psalms 72:2,4,12,13)
Jesus gave these words before to John the Baptist while he was in prison. John, through his disciples, asked Jesus, “Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?” Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.” (Matthew 11:3-5) The servant in the parable is describing Jesus’ last 3 years, his ministry unfolding right in front of the established elite’s eyes, those who had rejected Jesus’ invitation to the Great Banquet.
Jesus concluded his parable with a prophesy. Because there was still room, the master of the great house instructed his servant to go on a road trip until his house was filled. Jesus had been preparing his disciples to be his messengers to the Gentiles after he ascended. The prophecy is being fulfilled today. Best to be sure that one accepts the invitation before the guest list is closed.
