Rev. Cyril A. Stevens – Sermon 1058B recorded on February 2, 1986 teaching from Matthew 21:45-22:14 – Come to Salvation.
Pastor Cyril A. Stevens offers an in-depth exploration of the parable of the wedding banquet from Matthew 21:45-22:14, interpreting it as one of three poignant parables Jesus directed toward the chief priests and Pharisees. The core message centers on the invitation to salvation through Christ’s kingdom, contrasting the rebellious indifference of those initially invited—represented by the Jewish religious leaders—with the subsequent invitation extended to everyone, both “good and bad,” found in the highways and streets. Stevens underscores the solemn warning implicit in the parable, especially the fate of the man without a wedding garment, which is interpreted as a deliberate refusal to be clothed in righteousness and holiness provided by Jesus. Finally, Pastor Stevens concludes by connecting these parables to the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 and urging listeners to accept the calling, emphasizing that many are invited, but few accept.