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Luke 14:11
Verse
Context
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.
Luke 14:11
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.
The Path That Pride Leads To
By David Wilkerson0PrideHumility1SA 9:251SA 10:8PSA 10:4PRO 11:2PRO 16:18ISA 2:11LUK 14:11JAS 4:61JN 2:16REV 3:10David Wilkerson emphasizes the destructive nature of pride, which is at the forefront of what God detests. He illustrates how pride leads to impatience and disobedience, using King Saul's failure to wait for God's direction as a cautionary example. Wilkerson contrasts pride with humility, defining true humility as complete dependence on God and His timing. He reassures believers of God's promise to protect those who remain faithful and patient in their trials. The sermon calls for self-examination to recognize and combat the pride that can hinder spiritual growth.
Shipwrecked by Pride
By K.P. Yohannan0PrideHumilityPRO 11:2PRO 16:18ISA 55:8MAT 23:12LUK 14:11ROM 12:3GAL 6:3PHP 2:3JAS 4:61PE 5:5K.P. Yohannan discusses the dangers of pride and self-promotion among individuals with great potential, emphasizing how arrogance can lead to missed opportunities for growth and leadership. He illustrates how a talented young person, instead of waiting for maturity, may become insubordinate and disrespectful, ultimately hindering their own advancement. The sermon highlights the contrast between those who are humble and obedient versus those who allow pride to dictate their actions, leading to a cycle of disappointment and disillusionment. Yohannan warns that God's plans for promotion can be forfeited when one refuses to submit to His ways, urging listeners to recognize the importance of humility in their journey. The message serves as a reminder that true success comes from aligning with God's design rather than pursuing personal ambition.
Esteemed by God
By K.P. Yohannan0BrokennessHumilityPSA 51:17ISA 57:15ISA 66:2MAT 5:3LUK 14:112CO 12:9GAL 2:20PHP 2:3JAS 4:101PE 5:6K.P. Yohannan emphasizes God's heart for the broken as revealed in Isaiah, highlighting that true esteem from God comes from humility and a contrite spirit. He contrasts this with the self-centered nature of humanity, which often seeks status and recognition, as illustrated by a man's request for a title before joining the ministry. Yohannan stresses that the work of the cross is essential for breaking our hard-heartedness, allowing us to experience the fullness of life in Christ. He challenges listeners to reflect on their own hearts and identify areas of unbrokenness, urging them to embrace humility and surrender to God’s transformative work.
Pride and the Voice of the Spirit
By David Wilkerson0PrideHumilityPSA 37:23PRO 3:5PRO 14:12ISA 66:2MAT 23:12LUK 14:11ROM 12:3PHP 2:3JAS 4:61PE 5:5David Wilkerson emphasizes the stark contrast between pride and humility, explaining that true humility involves complete dependence on God for guidance and strength, while pride stems from independence and self-reliance. He warns that a proud person, who relies on their own reasoning and abilities, is unteachable and cannot receive God's truth, as the Holy Spirit is absent in their life. Wilkerson highlights that God desires full control over our lives, and only through humility can we receive His grace and direction. The sermon calls for believers to seek God's counsel in every decision, recognizing that pride leads to spiritual death.
Humility: The Glory of the Creature
By Andrew Murray0Dependence On GodHumilityPRO 22:4MAT 5:3MAT 11:29LUK 14:11ROM 12:3EPH 4:2PHP 2:8COL 3:12JAS 4:101PE 5:6Andrew Murray emphasizes that humility is essential for understanding our relationship with God and for receiving His grace. He explains that God created humanity to reflect His glory and that humility is the highest virtue, allowing us to depend entirely on Him. Jesus exemplified this humility by becoming man and obediently sacrificing Himself, which is the foundation of our salvation. Murray asserts that true humility is the root of all virtues and the key to a fruitful relationship with God, as it enables us to acknowledge His sovereignty and work in our lives.
1 Peter 5:6
By John Gill0God's ExaltationHumilityPSA 37:34PSA 91:1PRO 3:34ISA 57:15MAT 23:12LUK 14:11HEB 12:5JAS 4:101PE 2:121PE 5:6John Gill emphasizes the importance of humility before God, urging believers to submit quietly to His will and endure afflictions without complaint. He explains that being under the mighty hand of God is both a position of safety and a pathway to exaltation, as God opposes the proud but lifts up the humble. Gill reassures that those who humble themselves will be exalted in God's perfect timing, whether in this life or at the return of Christ. He encourages mourning over sin and recognizing our unworthiness, which fosters a deeper reverence for God's majesty.
Behold Christ
By K.P. Yohannan0Christ's ExampleHumilityPRO 16:18ISA 14:13MAT 23:12LUK 14:11JHN 3:30ROM 12:3EPH 4:2PHP 2:3JAS 4:61PE 5:5K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the importance of humility by reflecting on Christ's example of selflessness and servitude. He urges believers to recognize that every challenge is an opportunity to cultivate a humble spirit, mirroring Jesus' humility in our interactions with others. Yohannan warns against using humility as a means for personal gain, highlighting that true humility allows Christ's life to be perfected within us. He contrasts the destructive nature of pride, which leads to spiritual downfall, with the redemptive power of Christ's humility demonstrated through His sacrifice. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a daily commitment to decrease ourselves so that Christ may increase in our lives.
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.
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.
The Great Master-Scar of the Soul
By Thomas Brooks0PrideHumilityPSA 10:4PRO 8:13PRO 11:2PRO 16:5PRO 18:12ISA 2:12LUK 14:11GAL 6:3JAS 4:61PE 5:5Thomas Brooks emphasizes the destructive nature of pride in his sermon 'The Great Master-Scar of the Soul,' describing it as the root of all sin and a leprosy that cannot be concealed. He warns that pride leads to spiritual separation from God, as He detests the proud and will not associate with them. Brooks urges believers to be vigilant against pride, to arm themselves with humility, and to pray earnestly for protection against this pervasive sin. The sermon highlights the necessity of recognizing and combating pride to experience God's presence and favor.
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.
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.
In the Teaching of Jesus
By Andrew Murray0ServanthoodHumilityMAT 5:3LUK 9:46LUK 14:11LUK 18:14LUK 22:26JHN 13:14Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound humility of Jesus, urging believers to learn from His example of meekness and servanthood. He highlights that true greatness in the Kingdom of Heaven is found in serving others, as Jesus demonstrated through His life and teachings. Murray points out that humility is the key to receiving God's blessings and that self-abasement leads to exaltation in God's eyes. He calls for a deep desire for humility among Christians, reminding them that true nobility lies in becoming servants to one another. Ultimately, Murray encourages believers to seek a heart filled with humility, as it opens the way for Christ's presence and power in their lives.
Humility and Faith
By Andrew Murray0FaithHumilityPRO 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.
- 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.