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The Parable of the Guests
10But when you are invited, go and sit in the last place, so that your host will come and tell you, ‘Friend, move up to a better place.’ Then you will be honored in front of everyone at the table with you.11For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For whosoever exalteth himself, etc. - This is the unchangeable conduct of God: he is ever abasing the proud, and giving grace, honor, and glory to the humble.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
whosoever, &c.--couching them in a chaste simplicity and proverbial terseness of style which makes them "apples of gold in a setting of silver." (See on Luk 18:14).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then said he also to him that bad him,.... As he had given advice and instructions to the guests, so he likewise thought fit to give some to the master of the house, that had given both him and them an invitation to the present meal; observing, very likely, that his guests consisted of such persons as are hereafter described. When thou makest a dinner, or a supper; any entertainment for other persons, at what time of the day soever, whether sooner or later, at noon, or at night, on sabbath days, or others: call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours: that is, do not invite thy rich friends, rich brethren, and rich kinsmen, as well as not rich neighbours: not that our Lord's meaning is, that such should not be invited at all; which would be to destroy friendship and sociable conversation among persons in such a relation, and of such rank and fortune: but his sense is, that not these only should be invited, to the neglect of poor friends, poor brethren, poor kinsmen, and poor neighbours; and who, comparatively speaking, should rather be invited than the former, as being what would be more serviceable to them, and of a greater advantage in the issue to the master of the feast himself. Lest they also bid thee again; and thee only, and not the poor, to as grand an entertainment, which is commonly done: and a recompense be made thee: one feasting bout for another, so that there will be no obligation on either side; and this will be all the advantage that will be gained; the return is made here, and there will be no reward hereafter.
The Parable of the Guests
10But when you are invited, go and sit in the last place, so that your host will come and tell you, ‘Friend, move up to a better place.’ Then you will be honored in front of everyone at the table with you.11For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Dying to Self (Part 1 of 2)
By Keith Green25K1:01:531KI 17:12MAT 23:12MRK 12:30LUK 6:38LUK 14:11JHN 3:30In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of committing everything to God. He references Luke 12:35-36, where Jesus instructs his followers to be ready and alert for the return of their master. The preacher emphasizes that God sees everything, even the hidden aspects of our lives, and we should aim to impress Him alone. He also mentions John 12:24, highlighting the need to give up things we love if they compete with our devotion to God. Lastly, the preacher discusses Luke 21:1-4, where Jesus praises a poor widow for her sacrificial giving, contrasting it with the extravagant gifts of the rich.
Prayer and Fasting - When You Fast
By Derek Prince3.4K55:312CH 7:14JOL 2:14MAT 6:16LUK 14:11ACT 13:2ACT 14:23This sermon emphasizes the importance of fasting as a key to effective praying, highlighting the need for humility, prayer, seeking God's face, and turning from wicked ways. It draws from examples in the Bible where fasting led to significant outcomes, such as appointing leaders, averting disaster, and receiving God's guidance. The message underscores the power of fasting in bringing about spiritual breakthroughs, healing for the land, and the outpouring of God's Spirit on all flesh.
(Basics) 34. Humility in Jesus' Death
By Zac Poonen2.3K13:05MAT 6:33MAT 26:38LUK 9:23LUK 14:11LUK 23:34JHN 8:15PHP 2:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of demonstrating the life of Christ in our own lives and localities. He highlights the humility of Jesus, particularly in the Garden of Gethsemane and during his trial and crucifixion. Jesus chose not to call upon angels for help, but instead humbled himself and accepted the unjust treatment and death that his Father had planned for him. The speaker encourages listeners to live with an open palm, serving others and meeting their needs, just as Jesus did throughout his life. He emphasizes that true Christianity is not about seeking honor or popularity, but rather following the example of Jesus and living in humility.
Clothed in Humility, Part Two
By K.P. Yohannan2.2K25:59HumilityPRO 16:18MAT 6:33LUK 14:11ROM 12:3PHP 2:8JAS 4:61PE 5:5In this sermon, Brother K.P. Johannon emphasizes the importance of humility in the Christian life. He encourages listeners to recognize their unworthiness and to view themselves as servants of God. He explains that humility is a process that requires a willingness to die to oneself. Brother K.P. also highlights the significance of humility in experiencing Christ and entering into suffering. He concludes by sharing his own struggles as an encouragement to others and emphasizes the continuous humility displayed by Jesus throughout his life.
Giving Our Mind to Christ - Part 6
By Zac Poonen1.3K08:47PRO 11:25MAT 16:24LUK 14:11ROM 12:161CO 2:161CO 10:242CO 10:4PHP 2:3JAS 4:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life free from selfishness and pride, urging believers to adopt humility, unselfish love, and generosity towards others. It contrasts the selfless attitude of Jesus with the selfishness often found in society, highlighting the need to prioritize spiritual growth over cultural norms. The speaker encourages a sincere commitment to eliminating selfish tendencies and embracing the mindset of Christ, seeking true happiness and fulfillment in a devoted Christian life.
Feeding the Lost Multitude - Part 2
By Vance Havner1.1K16:02Lost SoulsJOS 1:9PSA 37:4PRO 3:5ISA 43:19MAT 7:7MAT 14:17LUK 14:11In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his past experiences and shares a story about a preacher named Vance Havner who had a powerful impact on people. The speaker emphasizes the importance of relying on God's hand rather than statistics or human efforts. He encourages listeners to have faith and expect miracles, reminding them that blessings can come at any moment. The speaker also urges believers to approach worship with reverence and anticipation, as if it were their first and last time, in order to open themselves up to divine blessings.
God Exalts the Lowly
By Erlo Stegen1.1K45:52LowlyMIC 5:2MAT 20:26MAT 23:12LUK 9:48LUK 14:11LUK 18:13In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a gathering of ministers, magistrates, and high-ranking officials in a luxurious setting. One person, who is referred to as "He," asks the Lord how to bless these people. The Lord instructs him to serve tea and coffee to everyone, which he does without complaint. Despite being the least important person there, he is asked to pray and bless the food. The speaker then connects this story to the concept of Christmas and emphasizes the importance of humility and being the least in order to allow God to work through us.
God Has Chosen the Foolish Things - Part 2
By Joshua Daniel78428:30PSA 138:6PRO 3:34ISA 57:15MAT 23:12LUK 14:111CO 1:272CO 10:1PHP 2:5JAS 4:101PE 5:6This sermon by Joshua Daniel emphasizes how God chooses the weak, foolish, and despised things of the world to confound the wise and mighty. It highlights the transformational power of God in turning failures into victories, using examples like Peter and the early church. The message encourages humility, trusting in God's plan, and finding strength in weakness, echoing the theme of God's preference for the base things of the world.
Self-Exaltation and Humility
By Bob Jennings52646:59HumilityMAT 20:21MAT 23:12LUK 14:11LUK 18:141TI 3:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of humility and serving others. He encourages the congregation to have a humble attitude and to be willing to serve, rather than just seeking to be served. The preacher references biblical passages, such as Deuteronomy 17-18 and James 1-21, to support his message on humility and receiving the word of God with humility. He also highlights the dangers of arrogance, laziness, lying, and not dealing with sin, as these behaviors are connected to pride and hinder humility.
Appointment of Elder in Cfc
By Zac Poonen49711:21PRO 16:18MAT 23:12LUK 14:11ROM 12:31CO 15:10EPH 3:8PHP 2:31TI 1:15JAS 4:61PE 5:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of humility and spiritual growth in leadership, using the Apostle Paul as an example. It highlights Paul's progression from considering himself the least of the apostles to the foremost of sinners, showcasing how drawing closer to God reveals deeper areas of sin in our lives. The message encourages a humble attitude, continuous growth, and the need for godly leaders in the church.
Joseph's Dungeon: The Power of the Spirit and Humility
By Mike Bickle281:06:51Power of the Holy SpiritHumilityPRO 22:4MAT 5:5LUK 14:11JHN 3:30ACT 2:12CO 12:7PHP 2:31TI 1:18JAS 4:61PE 5:5Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of humility in experiencing the greater power of the Holy Spirit, as outlined in 1 Timothy 1:18. He warns against building ministries on prophetic words alone, advocating instead for a foundation rooted in Jesus and Scripture. Bickle highlights that true manifestations of the Spirit's power will be accompanied by a commitment to humility, as pride can lead to the downfall of ministries. He draws parallels with Joseph's dungeon, illustrating that ministries promoting humility will thrive, while those that do not will face divine removal. Ultimately, he calls for a generation to pursue authentic expressions of faith without manipulation or exaggeration.
Humility and Faith
By Andrew Murray2FaithHumilityPRO 11:2ISA 57:15MAT 23:12LUK 14:11JHN 5:44ROM 12:3EPH 4:2PHP 2:3JAS 4:101PE 5:6Andrew Murray emphasizes the vital connection between humility and faith, arguing that pride obstructs true belief in God. He illustrates how Christians often see the promises of God but feel hindered from receiving them due to pride, which makes faith impossible. Murray points out that faith is rooted in humility, as it requires a recognition of our dependence on God and a surrender of self. He encourages believers to seek humility as the path to deeper faith and communion with God, asserting that true faith flourishes in an environment of lowliness and trust in God's glory. Ultimately, he calls for a shift in focus from seeking human approval to seeking the glory that comes from God alone.
Grace for the Humble
By C.H. Spurgeon2GraceHumilityPSA 147:6PRO 3:34ISA 57:15MAT 5:3LUK 14:11ROM 12:32CO 12:9PHP 2:3JAS 4:61PE 5:5C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that grace is given to the humble, highlighting that those with humble hearts actively seek and receive grace abundantly. He encourages believers to adopt a lowly view of themselves, recognizing their neediness and unworthiness, which opens the door for God's grace to flow into their lives. Spurgeon warns against the pride of being proud of one's humility, urging true humility as a pathway to experiencing God's favor. He reassures that grace not only cultivates humility but also rewards it, inviting believers to embrace a humble spirit to be exalted by God's grace.
Bible Paradoxes
By William MacDonald1Spiritual GrowthParadoxes of FaithGEN 32:24PSA 4:1PRO 11:24JER 48:11MAT 6:19MRK 8:35LUK 14:11JHN 15:5ACT 20:35ROM 6:171CO 1:202CO 6:92CO 12:101JN 1:81JN 3:9William MacDonald explores the intriguing paradoxes found in the Bible, emphasizing how these truths challenge our conventional understanding. He illustrates that true life is found in losing it, strength in weakness, and freedom in servitude to Christ. MacDonald highlights that joy comes from giving rather than receiving, and that we can possess everything while having nothing. He concludes that the Christian journey is filled with contradictions that ultimately lead to spiritual growth and understanding.
Before Destruction the Heart of Man Is Haughty
By C.H. Spurgeon1PrideHumility2SA 24:10PSA 10:4PRO 16:18PRO 18:12ISA 2:11JER 9:23DAN 4:33LUK 14:11JAS 4:61PE 5:5C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the dangers of pride and haughtiness, warning that a proud heart often precedes destruction. He illustrates this with biblical examples, such as King David and Nebuchadnezzar, showing that pride leads to downfall and humiliation. Spurgeon cautions Christians against self-conceit and the illusion of spiritual richness, reminding them that true humility is essential to avoid God's discipline. He concludes by urging believers to find their glory in the Lord rather than in their own achievements, as pride can lead to the loss of joy and comfort.
Humbling Oneself
By Zac Poonen0PSA 147:6PRO 15:33PRO 22:4ISA 40:31ISA 49:23MAT 5:5LUK 14:11PHP 2:8JAS 4:61PE 5:5Zac Poonen preaches on the importance of humility and being willing to humble ourselves under God's mighty hand, as God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Spiritual exaltation comes from humbling ourselves and accepting joyfully the circumstances God sends into our lives. Through the example of Henry Suso, we learn the power of being broken and humble like Jesus, even in the face of misunderstanding, false accusations, and public humiliation.
Contrasting Results for Self-Exaltation and Humility
By Bob Hoekstra0PRO 30:12MAT 23:12LUK 14:11LUK 16:15LUK 18:11PHP 4:6Bob Hoekstra preaches on the importance of humility and the dangers of self-righteousness, as illustrated in the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. The message emphasizes Jesus' teaching that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, while those who humble themselves will be exalted, highlighting the universal principle of contrasting results for pride and humility.
Homily 65 on Matthew
By St. John Chrysostom0GEN 18:27EXO 5:2PSA 138:6PRO 22:4ISA 66:2MAT 20:28LUK 14:111TI 3:6JAS 4:6JAS 4:10John Chrysostom preaches on the importance of humility and lowliness of heart, contrasting it with the dangers of arrogance and pride. He emphasizes how true greatness comes from serving others and being meek, drawing examples from Scripture and the lives of saints. Chrysostom highlights how God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble, showing that humility leads to exaltation while arrogance leads to downfall. He encourages the listeners to embrace humility, as it not only pleases God but also brings honor and blessings in this life and the life to come.
Exaltation of the Humble
By A.W. Tozer0HumilityDivine VictoryPSA 18:27PRO 15:33ISA 57:15MAT 5:5LUK 14:11ROM 8:312CO 12:9PHP 2:3JAS 4:101PE 5:6A.W. Tozer emphasizes the paradox of spiritual victory through humility, illustrating that true strength lies not in direct confrontation but in surrendering to God. He explains that our instinct to confront enemies head-on often leads to failure, while a humble approach confounds adversaries and invites divine assistance. Tozer highlights biblical examples, such as Jacob's defeat before his encounter with Esau, showing that God often conquers our enemies by first conquering us. This humbling process positions us for God's intervention, ensuring victory is secured from eternity. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to embrace humility as a pathway to divine support and triumph.
Let the People Renew Their Strength
By C.H. Spurgeon0MAT 18:4MAT 23:12LUK 3:5LUK 14:11LUK 18:142CO 11:72CO 12:21PHP 2:8PHP 4:12JAS 4:101PE 5:6The preacher delves into the meaning of humility, emphasizing the importance of humbling oneself in the presence of the Lord. He explains that true humility involves recognizing our unworthiness and allowing God to work in us, bringing us to a lower position. The preacher highlights various biblical examples of humility, such as Isaiah, Job, and the apostle John, who were profoundly impacted by encountering God's glory. He stresses that humility is a response to understanding God's greatness and our own sinfulness, leading to a genuine realization of our need for God's grace and exaltation.
For a Mind at Peace
By Richard E. Bieber0LUK 13:10LUK 14:11LUK 18:9ROM 7:181JN 1:8Richard E. Bieber preaches about the healing power of Jesus, as seen in the miraculous healing of a woman with a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years. While the woman's physical healing was immediate, there was another man in the synagogue with a twisted mind, symbolizing the bondage of self-righteousness and judgment. The sermon delves into the characteristics of a twisted mind - self-centeredness, reluctance to look up to God, and a habit of looking down on others. It emphasizes the importance of humbling oneself before God, acknowledging one's sinfulness, and seeking His mercy for continuous healing and transformation.
The Humble Place
By A.W. Tozer0Dependence On GodHumilityPSA 147:6PRO 3:34ISA 57:15MAT 5:3LUK 14:11GAL 2:20EPH 2:8PHP 2:3JAS 4:61PE 5:5A.W. Tozer emphasizes the distinction between true humility and false humility, noting that many Christians either mistakenly believe they are humble or fear they are proud. He advocates for a self-forgetful attitude where individuals trust in Christ to work within them, rather than striving to appear virtuous on their own. Tozer asserts that true humility leads to a release from the burdens of self-expectation, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide moral actions. He warns that pride can lead to the forfeiture of God's blessings, as the humble are the ones who receive His promises. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep reliance on God's grace rather than self-effort.
Less Than the Least
By Thomas Brooks0Self-AbasementHumilityPRO 16:18MAT 23:12LUK 14:11ROM 12:3GAL 6:3EPH 3:8PHP 2:3COL 3:12JAS 4:101PE 5:6Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound humility of the Apostle Paul, who refers to himself as 'less than the least of all saints' in Ephesians 3:8. This double diminutive illustrates Paul's recognition of his own unworthiness and the importance of humility in the Christian life. Brooks argues that true greatness in God's eyes comes from self-abasement, especially in a time when pride and arrogance are prevalent among believers. He calls for a revival of the doctrine of humility, highlighting its role as both a beautifier and preserver of other virtues.
Commentary Notes - Luke
By Walter Beuttler0LUK 1:1LUK 4:18LUK 6:12LUK 14:11LUK 17:20LUK 22:26LUK 23:34LUK 24:46Walter Beuttler preaches on the Book of Luke, highlighting the diverse themes and teachings within its chapters. The book, written by Luke, emphasizes Jesus as the ideal man, fully human and divine, and covers events over a span of thirty-nine years. Luke portrays Christ as the epitome of humanity, demonstrating his compassion, wisdom, and authority. The Gospel of Luke addresses various aspects of discipleship, faith, and the kingdom of God, urging believers to surrender all to Christ and follow him wholeheartedly.
The Humble Man's Heart
By Thomas Brooks0God's PresenceHumilityJOB 22:29PSA 34:18PRO 3:34ISA 57:15MAT 5:3LUK 14:11JAS 4:61PE 5:5Thomas Brooks emphasizes that God chooses to dwell in the hearts of the humble, highlighting the profound relationship between humility and divine presence. He explains that God's dwelling with the humble includes His supervision, assistance, protection, sympathy, and teaching, ultimately leading to a richer experience of His grace and glory. Brooks illustrates that the humble receive not only God's support but also a deeper revelation of His goodness and love. The sermon encourages believers to cultivate a humble spirit to experience God's abundant blessings.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For whosoever exalteth himself, etc. - This is the unchangeable conduct of God: he is ever abasing the proud, and giving grace, honor, and glory to the humble.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
whosoever, &c.--couching them in a chaste simplicity and proverbial terseness of style which makes them "apples of gold in a setting of silver." (See on Luk 18:14).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then said he also to him that bad him,.... As he had given advice and instructions to the guests, so he likewise thought fit to give some to the master of the house, that had given both him and them an invitation to the present meal; observing, very likely, that his guests consisted of such persons as are hereafter described. When thou makest a dinner, or a supper; any entertainment for other persons, at what time of the day soever, whether sooner or later, at noon, or at night, on sabbath days, or others: call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours: that is, do not invite thy rich friends, rich brethren, and rich kinsmen, as well as not rich neighbours: not that our Lord's meaning is, that such should not be invited at all; which would be to destroy friendship and sociable conversation among persons in such a relation, and of such rank and fortune: but his sense is, that not these only should be invited, to the neglect of poor friends, poor brethren, poor kinsmen, and poor neighbours; and who, comparatively speaking, should rather be invited than the former, as being what would be more serviceable to them, and of a greater advantage in the issue to the master of the feast himself. Lest they also bid thee again; and thee only, and not the poor, to as grand an entertainment, which is commonly done: and a recompense be made thee: one feasting bout for another, so that there will be no obligation on either side; and this will be all the advantage that will be gained; the return is made here, and there will be no reward hereafter.