Matthew 22:9

KJV

Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.

KJV (with Strong's)

Go ye {G4198} therefore {G3767} into {G1909} the highways {G1327}{G3598}, and {G2532} as many as {G3745}{G302} ye shall find {G2147}, bid {G2564} to {G1519} the marriage {G1062}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So go out to the street-corners and invite to the banquet as many as you find.'

Berean Standard Bible

Go therefore to the crossroads and invite to the banquet as many as you can find.’

American Standard Version

Go ye therefore unto the partings of the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage feast.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 22:9, a pivotal verse within Jesus' Parable of the Marriage Feast, marks a dramatic shift in God's redemptive strategy. After the initial invitees reject the king's gracious summons to his son's wedding, this verse reveals God's boundless grace and expansive invitation, commanding His servants to extend the call universally to all people found in the public thoroughfares, ensuring His kingdom will be filled. It underscores the inclusive nature of God's salvation plan, moving beyond a privileged few to embrace all who will respond.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is nestled within the Parable of the Marriage Feast (Matthew 22:1-14), one of Jesus' final parables delivered in Jerusalem during the week leading up to His crucifixion. It immediately follows the king's furious response to the initial invited guests who not only refused his invitation but also violently mistreated his messengers (Matthew 22:6-7). In [Matthew 22:8](/matthew/22-8 "Matthew 22:8 - The Unworthy Guests"), the king declares these initial guests "unworthy." Thus, [Matthew 22:9](/matthew/22-9 "Matthew 22:9 - The Broadened Invitation") represents a decisive turning point, illustrating God's unwavering determination to see His kingdom populated, even if it means extending the invitation to those previously considered outsiders. The parable as a whole serves as a stark warning to the religious leaders of Israel who rejected Jesus, foreshadowing the transfer of God's favor to the Gentiles.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Near Eastern wedding feasts were significant social events, often lasting for days, and invitations were highly esteemed and rarely refused without grave insult to the host. The initial invitees in the parable, often understood to represent the Jewish people and their religious leaders, had received God's long-standing invitation through the prophets and ultimately through Jesus Himself, yet they rejected it. The "highways" (διέξοδος) refer to the public crossroads or thoroughfares, places where all manner of people, regardless of social standing, wealth, or reputation, would be found. This stark contrast with the initially invited elite highlights a radical shift in the scope of God's invitation, moving from an exclusive, privileged group to a universal, inclusive call, reflecting the historical reality of the Gospel spreading from the Jews to the Gentiles.

* **Key Themes:** [Matthew 22:9](/matthew/22-9 "Matthew 22:9 - The Universal Call") is rich with theological themes. Firstly, it powerfully conveys the **Universal Invitation** of God, demonstrating that His grace is not limited to a select few but extends to all humanity. This foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles into God's covenant plan, a theme profoundly developed in the New Testament, as seen in [Romans 10:12](/romans/10-12 "Romans 10:12 - No Distinction Between Jew and Gentile"). Secondly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Persistent Grace**, showcasing God's unwavering resolve to fulfill His purposes despite human rejection. The king's desire for his feast to be filled, even after such affront, speaks to God's relentless love and desire for fellowship. Thirdly, the "marriage" or "wedding feast" serves as a profound **Metaphor for the Kingdom of Heaven**, symbolizing the joyous, intimate fellowship and eternal blessings awaiting those who accept God's invitation, a concept culminating in the [Marriage Supper of the Lamb](/revelation/19-7 "Revelation 19:7 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb") in Revelation. Lastly, the command "Go ye therefore" emphasizes the **Urgency and Active Dissemination** of the Gospel message, calling God's servants to proactive evangelism.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **highways (Greek, _diéxodos_):** This term (G1327) literally means "an outlet through" or "an open square from which roads diverge." It signifies public crossroads or thoroughfares, not secluded paths. The choice of this word emphasizes that the invitation is to be extended indiscriminately to anyone found in these common, public spaces, symbolizing a universal reach beyond any specific social or religious circles.
* **bid (Greek, _kaléō_):** From the Greek (G2564), meaning "to call" or "to invite." This word underscores the gracious nature of the summons. It's not a demand or a conscription, but a genuine, open invitation to partake in the king's joy. The emphasis is on the act of extending the invitation, making it known to all.
* **marriage (Greek, _gámos_):** This word (G1062) refers to "nuptials" or a "wedding feast." In biblical contexts, a marriage feast often symbolizes a time of great celebration, joy, and covenantal union. Here, it represents the eschatological banquet of God's kingdom, a metaphor for the ultimate fellowship and blessings enjoyed by those who enter into a relationship with God through His Son.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Go ye therefore":** This imperative command signifies an immediate and decisive action. The "therefore" (G3767, _oûn_) links this command directly to the preceding rejection of the initial guests, indicating a necessary shift in strategy. It implies a divine urgency and a new directive for the servants (representing those who proclaim God's message) to actively seek out new guests.
* **"into the highways":** This phrase specifies the destination for the renewed invitation. The "highways" (G1327, _diéxodos_) are public, accessible places, symbolizing that the invitation is no longer restricted to an exclusive group but is now open to everyone, regardless of their social standing, background, or perceived worthiness. It represents a move from the "insiders" to the "outsiders."
* **"and as many as ye shall find":** This clause emphasizes the indiscriminate nature of the invitation. There are no qualifications or preconditions for those to be invited, other than simply being "found" (G2147, _heurískō_) in these public spaces. It highlights God's expansive grace and His desire that *all* who are willing may come and partake in the feast.
* **"bid to the marriage":** This final command reiterates the purpose of the mission: to invite people to the wedding feast. The "marriage" (G1062, _gámos_) symbolizes the Kingdom of Heaven and the joyous fellowship with God. This instruction underscores God's ultimate desire for His house to be filled and His joy to be shared.

#### Literary Devices
The Parable of the Marriage Feast, and specifically [Matthew 22:9](/matthew/22-9 "Matthew 22:9 - The Call to the Highways"), is rich in **Allegory**, where elements of the story directly correspond to spiritual realities. The king represents God, the son is Jesus Christ, and the marriage feast symbolizes the Kingdom of Heaven or the eschatological banquet. The initial guests allegorically represent the Jewish people, particularly their religious leaders, who rejected God's invitation through Jesus. The command to go to the "highways" and invite "as many as ye shall find" allegorically represents the universal extension of the Gospel invitation to the Gentiles and all who were previously considered outsiders. The "marriage" itself functions as a powerful **Metaphor** for the joyous union and intimate fellowship between God and His people, often culminating in the [Marriage Supper of the Lamb](/revelation/19-7 "Revelation 19:7 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb"). Furthermore, the imagery of the "highways" carries **Symbolism**, representing the public, common spaces where all people, regardless of status, can be found, thereby emphasizing the inclusive and non-discriminatory nature of God's call to salvation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 22:9 profoundly illustrates the boundless nature of God's grace and His unwavering desire for all humanity to partake in the blessings of His kingdom. After the chosen people rejected His initial, gracious invitation, God did not abandon His plan but expanded its scope, demonstrating His sovereignty and determination to fill His house. This verse serves as a powerful theological statement on the universal call of the Gospel, revealing that God's redemptive plan is not limited by human prejudice or social standing but extends to "as many as ye shall find," encompassing all who are willing to respond to His gracious summons. It underscores the truth that salvation is offered freely to all, regardless of their past or perceived worthiness, highlighting God's inclusive love.

* [Luke 14:16-24](/luke/14-16-24 "Luke 14:16-24 - The Parable of the Great Supper")
* [Romans 10:12-13](/romans/10-12-13 "Romans 10:12-13 - Salvation for All Who Call")
* [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Unity in Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 22:9 serves as a profound mandate for believers today, echoing the essence of the Great Commission. Just as the king's servants were commanded to go into the highways and invite everyone they encountered, so too are followers of Christ called to extend God's gracious invitation to the Gospel without prejudice or discrimination. This verse challenges us to look beyond our comfortable circles, our preconceived notions of who is "worthy," and our fear of rejection, to actively share the good news with all people, recognizing that God's love and salvation are for "as many as ye shall find." It compels us to embody the expansive heart of God, reaching out to the marginalized, the overlooked, and those on the "highways" of life, ensuring that His house may be filled. Our mission is to invite, to bid, to proclaim the joyous news of the Kingdom, trusting that God will draw those who are ready to respond.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Who are the "highways" in my life or community that I am called to reach with God's invitation?**
* **What prejudices or comfort zones might be preventing me from extending God's invitation to "as many as I shall find"?**
* **How can I actively participate in filling God's house, reflecting His boundless grace and universal love?**
* **What does it mean for me personally to accept God's invitation to the "marriage feast" of His kingdom?**

### FAQ

**Who are the "highways" people in this parable?**

Answer: The "highways" people represent anyone and everyone outside the initial, privileged group who rejected the invitation. The Greek word for "highways" (G1327, _diéxodos_) refers to public crossroads or thoroughfares, places where all types of people, regardless of social status, background, or perceived worthiness, would gather. Theologically, they symbolize the Gentiles and all those previously considered "outsiders" or "unworthy" by the religious establishment, to whom God's universal invitation to salvation is now extended. This highlights God's inclusive love, reaching beyond the boundaries of a specific nation or social class to embrace all who will respond to His call.

**What does the "marriage feast" symbolize in this context?**

Answer: The "marriage feast" (G1062, _gámos_) is a rich biblical metaphor for the joyous, celebratory, and intimate fellowship found in God's eternal Kingdom. In the New Testament, it often symbolizes the ultimate union between Christ (the Bridegroom) and His Church (the Bride). It represents the eschatological banquet, the consummation of God's redemptive plan, where believers will share in eternal joy and communion with God. This imagery is powerfully depicted in [Revelation 19:7-9](/revelation/19-7-9 "Revelation 19:7-9 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb"), where the "Marriage Supper of the Lamb" signifies the triumphant celebration of Christ's victory and His eternal reign with His redeemed people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 22:9 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is both the King's Son for whom the marriage feast is prepared and the one who extends the universal invitation. The initial rejection by the invited guests foreshadows Israel's rejection of their Messiah, leading to the broadening of God's redemptive plan. It is through Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross that the "highways" are opened to all humanity, providing access to the feast that was previously inaccessible due to sin. Jesus Himself is the embodiment of the universal invitation, declaring in [John 6:37](/john/6-37 "John 6:37 - All Who Come to Jesus") that "all that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away." He is the Lamb of God, whose shed blood makes the new covenant possible, inviting "as many as ye shall find" to partake in the spiritual blessings of the Kingdom. The "marriage" itself points to Christ as the Bridegroom, whose union with His Church, the Bride, is the ultimate reality of the Kingdom of Heaven, as beautifully portrayed in [Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church"). Thus, Matthew 22:9 is not merely a historical account but a prophetic declaration of God's gracious pursuit of all peoples through His Son, Jesus Christ, to fill His eternal dwelling with those who respond to His call.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 14:21

So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.

Luke 14:24

For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.

Proverbs 1:20

¶ Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets:

Proverbs 1:23

Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.

Mark 16:15

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

Mark 16:16

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Luke 24:47

And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.