The Danger Of Not Wearing A Wedding Garment

THE DANGER OF NOT WEARING A WEDDING GARMENT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 22:1-14

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 61:10, Revelation 19:7-8, Zechariah 3:3-5, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Romans 13:14

INTRODUCTION:

In the parable of the Wedding Banquet, Jesus tells of a king who prepared a great feast for his son. The invited guests refused to come, so the king called in others from the streets. However, one man was found without a wedding garment and was cast out. This story illustrates the importance of being spiritually clothed in Christ's righteousness. It warns us that mere participation in religious activities is not enough; we must be properly prepared for the Kingdom of God.

1. THE KING’S INVITATION IS FOR ALL

a) God calls everyone to salvation (Matthew 11:28)

God’s invitation is not limited to a few but extends to all who will accept Him.

b) Many reject the invitation (John 1:11-12)

Just as the initial guests rejected the king’s invitation, many people reject God’s call today.

c) Others are given the opportunity (Romans 10:13)

When some refuse, God extends His mercy to others.

d) The invitation is urgent (Luke 14:23)

The king commanded his servants to bring people in quickly, showing the urgency of salvation.

e) Biblical Example: The Thief on the Cross (Luke 23:39-43)

Though unworthy, he received salvation by accepting the invitation of Jesus.

2. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE WEDDING GARMENT

a) The garment represents righteousness (Isaiah 61:10)

Our righteousness is like filthy rags, but God clothes us in His righteousness.

b) It is given, not earned (Ephesians 2:8-9)

The wedding garment was provided, just as salvation is a gift from God.

c) No one enters the Kingdom without it (Revelation 19:7-8)

Only those clothed in righteousness will be accepted in heaven.

d) Self-righteousness is not enough (Philippians 3:9)

The man without a garment may have thought his own clothes were good enough, but only God’s provision is acceptable.

e) Biblical Example: Zechariah’s Vision of Joshua the High Priest (Zechariah 3:3-5)

Joshua’s filthy garments were replaced with clean ones, signifying God’s grace.

3. THE CONSEQUENCES OF NOT WEARING THE GARMENT

a) He was speechless before the king (Matthew 22:12)

Those who reject Christ will have no excuse on Judgment Day.

b) He was bound and cast out (Matthew 22:13)

Without Christ, there is no place in the Kingdom of God.

c) He suffered eternal separation (2 Thessalonians 1:8-9)

Being cast out symbolises eternal damnation.

d) There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 25:30)

Hell is a place of regret, torment, and suffering.

e) Biblical Example: The Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31)

The rich man, who lacked the garment of righteousness, found himself in torment.

4. HOW TO PUT ON THE WEDDING GARMENT

a) Accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour (John 3:16)

Salvation begins with faith in Christ.

b) Repent and be cleansed from sin (Acts 3:19)

True repentance allows God to clothe us in righteousness.

c) Live a holy and righteous life (Hebrews 12:14)

Without holiness, no one will see the Lord.

d) Daily walk in Christ (Romans 13:14)

We must put on Christ and live by His Spirit.

e) Biblical Example: The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:20-24)

When he returned, his father clothed him with a robe, signifying restoration.

5. THE FINAL WARNING: MANY ARE CALLED, BUT FEW ARE CHOSEN

a) Not everyone who hears the gospel will enter the Kingdom (Matthew 7:21)

It is not enough to be religious; we must be born again.

b) The road to eternal life is narrow (Matthew 7:13-14)

Few will walk in obedience to God’s call.

c) Those who endure to the end will be saved (Matthew 24:13)

Perseverance in faith is necessary.

d) Examine yourself whether you are in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5)

We must ensure we are truly clothed in righteousness.

e) Biblical Example: The Five Wise and Five Foolish Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13)

The foolish virgins were unprepared and shut out of the wedding feast.

CONCLUSION:

The parable of the Wedding Banquet teaches us that salvation is a divine invitation, but it requires proper preparation. We must be clothed in Christ’s righteousness to be accepted into His Kingdom. Those who ignore or reject this covering will face eternal separation from God.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Father, thank You for inviting me to Your Kingdom. Help me to accept Your invitation fully.

2. Lord, clothe me with the righteousness of Christ.

3. Every garment of sin in my life, be removed in Jesus’ name.

4. Holy Spirit, help me to live a life worthy of my calling.

5. I reject the deception of self-righteousness and embrace Christ’s righteousness.

6. Lord, prepare me for the marriage supper of the Lamb.

7. Any hidden sin that will disqualify me, be exposed and removed.

8. Lord, keep me faithful and watchful till the end.

9. Father, grant me the grace to endure till the end.