Jesus presents the alternative: 'But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind.' Instead of those who can repay, invite those who cannot: 'the poor' (πτωχούς, ptōchous, destitute), 'the maimed' (ἀναπείρους, anapeirous, crippled), 'the lame' (χωλούς, chōlous, unable to walk), 'the blind' (τυφλούς, typhlous, sightless). These groups were marginalized in ancient society, often excluded from religious and social gatherings. They cannot reciprocate hospitality. This command isn't merely about charity but reimagining community—the kingdom includes those the world excludes. It pictures God's grace, which reaches those with nothing to offer in return.
Historical Context
Jewish purity laws often excluded the disabled from full religious participation (Leviticus 21:17-23, though this applied specifically to priests). Social prejudice extended religious restrictions, marginalizing the disabled generally. Jesus consistently challenged this, healing the disabled and including them in His ministry. His command to invite the marginalized reflects Isaiah's prophecies about the messianic age when the blind see, the lame walk, and the poor have good news preached to them (Isaiah 29:18, 35:5-6, 61:1). The early church took this seriously, developing ministries to widows, orphans, and the poor (Acts 6:1-7, James 1:27).
Questions for Reflection
How does inviting those who cannot reciprocate picture God's grace toward sinners who have nothing to offer?
What contemporary forms of exclusion keep the marginalized from full participation in church community?
How should this command shape church hospitality, fellowship, and community life?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus presents the alternative: 'But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind.' Instead of those who can repay, invite those who cannot: 'the poor' (πτωχούς, ptōchous, destitute), 'the maimed' (ἀναπείρους, anapeirous, crippled), 'the lame' (χωλούς, chōlous, unable to walk), 'the blind' (τυφλούς, typhlous, sightless). These groups were marginalized in ancient society, often excluded from religious and social gatherings. They cannot reciprocate hospitality. This command isn't merely about charity but reimagining community—the kingdom includes those the world excludes. It pictures God's grace, which reaches those with nothing to offer in return.