Book of Matthew - Chapter 22 - Verse 12
Meaning
When looking at the verse "And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless," we can see a powerful message about being properly prepared for important events. In this parable shared by Jesus, the man who attends the wedding without wearing the proper garment symbolizes someone who tries to enter the kingdom of God without the necessary spiritual preparation. The wedding garment represents the righteousness and holiness that believers are called to have in order to enter into God's presence. The man's speechlessness shows his inability to offer any valid excuse for not being properly attired, emphasizing the importance of being spiritually prepared for judgment. This verse serves as a warning to all believers to ensure they are living a life of holiness and righteousness in preparation for the coming of the Lord.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse from the Book of Matthew is that it serves as a metaphor for the importance of spiritual preparation and readiness for the kingdom of heaven. The parable of the wedding feast in which this verse is found emphasizes the need for believers to be spiritually prepared and clothed in righteousness in order to enter the kingdom of God. In this context, the wedding garment symbolizes the righteousness of Christ that believers must put on through faith in order to be accepted into the wedding feast, which represents the eternal joy and communion with God in heaven. The speechless response of the man without a wedding garment highlights the futility of trying to enter the kingdom of God without the proper spiritual attire, emphasizing the necessity of true faith and righteousness in order to be received into God's presence.