Devine Scripture

Matthew 22:2

What does Matthew 22:2 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 22:2 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 22:2 means

Here, Jesus likens the kingdom of heaven to a king who prepares a magnificent marriage feast for his son. This imagery establishes a rich metaphor for God's gracious provision and the joyous celebration awaiting those who accept His invitation. The 'king' represents God the Father, and the 'son' is clearly a reference to Jesus Christ, the Messiah. The marriage feast symbolizes the covenant relationship and ultimate blessings found in God's kingdom, particularly the glorious future for believers.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a certain king, who made a marriage feast for his son,

KJV

King James Version · 1611

The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son,

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a certain king, who made a marriage feast for his son,

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king, who made a feast when his son was married,

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

`The reign of the heavens was likened to a man, a king, who made marriage-feasts for his son,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

The kingdom of heaven is likened to a king who made a marriage for his son.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

The kingdom of the heavens has become like a king who made a wedding feast for his son,

Context

This verse begins the parable of the wedding feast, directly connecting it to the 'kingdom of heaven,' a central theme in Matthew's Gospel. It introduces the main characters and the celebratory setting, immediately establishing the high stakes and joyful nature of the event. Understanding this initial setup is crucial for grasping the subsequent rejection and the king's response.

v.1And Jesus answered and spake again in parables unto them, saying,

v.2This passage

v.3and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the marriage feast: and they would not come.

Cross references

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

  • 2 Corinthians 11:2

    For I am jealous over you with a godly jealousy: for I espoused you to one husband, that I might present you as a pure virgin to Christ.

  • Matthew 13:31

    Another parable set he before them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like unto a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:

  • Matthew 13:44

    The kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hidden in the field; which a man found, and hid; and in his joy he goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.

  • Psalms 45:10

    Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and incline thine ear; Forget also thine own people, and thy father’s house:

  • Luke 14:16

    But he said unto him, A certain man made a great supper; and he bade many:

  • Revelation 19:7

    Let us rejoice and be exceeding glad, and let us give the glory unto him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.

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