New Testament

Luke 14:20

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, a man declines an invitation to a feast because he has just married.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Compare the same verse— read both and see which one you understand first.
ClearClear Bible Translation

Another said, 'I just got married, so I can't come.'

KJVKing James Version

And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.

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Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, a man declines an invitation to a feast because he has just married. This reflects a common theme in Jesus' parables where people make excuses to avoid responding to God's call. The man's focus on his new marriage highlights how personal commitments can sometimes take precedence over spiritual obligations. It serves as a reminder that while relationships are important, they should not distract us from our responsibilities to God. The invitation to the feast symbolizes the Kingdom of God, and the man's refusal illustrates how many people prioritize worldly concerns over spiritual ones. This verse encourages readers to examine their own lives for excuses that may prevent them from fully engaging with their faith and participating in the community of believers. Ultimately, it challenges us to consider what we value most and to ensure that our priorities align with God's calling. Explore related values.

Key themes

Related topics

values, commitment, fear

How to apply Luke 14:20 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on our own priorities. Are there commitments or distractions in our lives that prevent us from responding to God's call? We should strive to balance our personal lives with our spiritual responsibilities, ensuring that we do not let worldly matters overshadow our faith.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 14:20 mean?

Luke 14:20 illustrates a man's excuse for not attending a feast due to his recent marriage. This reflects how personal commitments can sometimes take precedence over spiritual obligations, highlighting the theme of prioritizing worldly concerns over God's call.

What is the meaning of the phrase 'I just got married' in Luke 14:20?

The phrase 'I just got married' signifies a common excuse people use to avoid spiritual responsibilities. It emphasizes how personal relationships can distract individuals from responding to God's invitation.

How does Luke 14:20 relate to priorities in life?

Luke 14:20 challenges readers to examine their priorities by showing how easily personal commitments can overshadow spiritual responsibilities. It encourages a balance between worldly matters and faith.

What lesson can we learn from Luke 14:20?

The lesson from Luke 14:20 is to be mindful of the excuses we make that prevent us from engaging with our faith. It encourages us to ensure that our personal commitments do not distract us from our spiritual obligations.

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