Devine Scripture

Matthew 22:14

What does Matthew 22:14 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 22:14 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 22:14 means

This concluding statement of the parable, 'For many are called, but few chosen,' summarizes a profound theological truth. The 'called' refers to the wide dissemination of the gospel invitation to all people. The 'chosen' refers to those who not only hear the call but respond in faith and are genuinely transformed, demonstrating the fruits of true spiritual readiness. This verse emphasizes divine sovereignty in election and human responsibility in responding, highlighting that not all who hear the gospel truly embrace it.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

For many are called, but few chosen.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

For many are called, but few are chosen.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

For many are called, but few chosen.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For out of all to whom the good news has come, only a small number will get salvation.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

for many are called, and few chosen.'

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For many are called, but few are chosen.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

For many are called ones, but few chosen ones.

Context

This verse is a direct interpretive summary of the entire parable of the wedding feast, following the judgment of the ill-prepared guest. It provides a theological conclusion to the parable, explaining the spiritual principle illustrated throughout. This aphorism serves as a bridge, connecting the specific events of the parable to a broader truth about God's kingdom and salvation, impacting the subsequent discussions Jesus will have with His adversaries.

v.13Then the king said to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and cast him out into the outer darkness; there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth.

v.14This passage

v.15Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might ensnare him in his talk.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Matthew 7:13

    Enter ye in by the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many are they that enter in thereby.

  • Matthew 24:22

    And except those days had been shortened, no flesh would have been saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.

  • Luke 13:23

    And one said unto him, Lord, are they few that are saved? And he said unto them,

  • Revelation 17:14

    These shall war against the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them, for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings; and they also shall overcome that are with him, called and chosen and faithful.

  • 2 Peter 1:10

    Wherefore, brethren, give the more diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never stumble:

  • Matthew 20:16

    So the last shall be first, and the first last.

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