Matthew 22:14
“Many are called, but few are chosen.”
Context:For many are called, but few are chosen. Matthew 22:14 (KJV)
This verse is found in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in the context of Jesus’ teaching during His ministry on earth. To better understand its meaning, let’s examine the broader passage it is a part of.
In Matthew 22:1-14, Jesus tells a parable known as the Parable of the Wedding Feast. In this parable, a king prepares a wedding feast for his son and sends out invitations to his servants. However, those who were invited refuse to come, making excuses and showing indifference toward the invitation. The king then invites others from the streets, both good and bad, to fill the wedding hall.
When the king enters the wedding feast, he notices a guest who is not wearing the proper wedding garment. The king questions him, and when the man is unable to give a satisfactory answer, he is cast out into outer darkness.
It is in the conclusion of this parable that we find the verse in question, Matthew 22:14: “For many are called, but few are chosen.”
The meaning of this verse can be understood in light of the parable. The “many” refers to the initial group of people who received the invitation to the wedding feast, representing the broader population. The “called” refers to the invitation extended to them, which symbolises God’s offer of salvation and entrance into His kingdom.
However, among those who are called, only a “few” are “chosen.” The “chosen” here refers to those who respond to the invitation with faith and accept Jesus Christ as their Saviour. They are the ones who receive salvation and are granted entry into God’s kingdom.
The verse emphasises that although the invitation to salvation is extended to many, not everyone will respond and be chosen. It implies that merely being called or hearing the message of the Gospel is not enough for salvation. True salvation requires a personal response of faith and acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.
This verse serves as a reminder that while God’s invitation to salvation is available to all, it is ultimately a personal decision to accept or reject it. It highlights the responsibility and urgency for individuals to respond to God’s call and make the necessary preparations, symbolised by the proper wedding garment in the parable.
