New Testament
Luke 14:20
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Another said, 'I just got married, so I can't come.'
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And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.
What Luke 14:20 means
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.
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
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Luke 14:20
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
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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