New Testament
Luke 14:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The servant came back and reported all of this to his master. The master was furious. He told his servant, 'Go out right now into the streets and alleys of the city and bring back the poor, the disabled, the blind, and the lame.'
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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.
What Luke 14:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the master of a banquet is upset because those he initially invited have refused to come. In response, he instructs his servant to go out into the city and bring in those who are marginalized, including the poor, disabled, blind, and lame. This reflects the master's desire to fill his banquet with guests who may not typically be included in such gatherings. The act of inviting the less fortunate highlights themes of inclusion and grace, showing that the master values all people, regardless of their social status. This also serves as a metaphor for God's invitation to His kingdom, emphasizing that it is open to everyone, especially those who are often overlooked by society. The urgency in the master's command indicates the importance of reaching out to those in need and ensuring that they are welcomed and valued.
How to apply Luke 14:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to reach out to those who are marginalized or in need. We can actively seek to include people from all walks of life in our communities, showing compassion and kindness. By doing so, we reflect the love and grace of God.
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 14:21
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Related topics
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 14:21 mean?
Luke 14:21 describes a master who is angry because his invited guests refuse to attend his banquet. He instructs his servant to invite the marginalized members of society, highlighting themes of inclusion and the importance of welcoming everyone.
What is the significance of the poor and disabled in Luke 14:21?
In Luke 14:21, the master commands his servant to bring in the poor, disabled, blind, and lame, symbolizing God's invitation to those often overlooked by society. This emphasizes the value of all individuals, regardless of their social status.
How does Luke 14:21 relate to social justice?
Luke 14:21 relates to social justice by advocating for the inclusion of marginalized groups. The master's command to invite the poor and disabled reflects a call to recognize and uplift those who are often excluded.
What themes are present in Luke 14:21?
Key themes in Luke 14:21 include inclusion, grace, compassion, and social justice. The verse emphasizes the importance of welcoming all individuals, particularly those who are marginalized.
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