This whole story jars American sensibilities regarding weddings. In fact, this parable may provoke so many questions that we get lost trying to decipher all the details. We may read a commentator's explanation that the parable delivers a stern judgment on the stiff-necked Jews who rejected Jesus. While true, such a simple explanation tempts us to dismiss the message Matthew intends for his Christian readers.
Let's focus on the most out of place part of the whole story, the man without wedding clothes. Only at a wedding or funeral do many men ever wear a suit and tie anymore. But most of us still disapprove of the third cousin or good-friend's-boyfriend who shows up in ratty jeans and a Metallica t-shirt. Perhaps to us arrest and torture seem extreme punishment for the crime. Yet, we understand that some sacrifice of time and comfort are necessary to be part of the celebration.
The hosts have gone to considerable expense and effort to prepare for this event. They bestow an honor on everyone invited. In the first part of the parable the indifferent are treated likewise. The king executes the violent. Here, the man expresses indifference and contempt in the face of the king. "Speechless" in the text actually means he stared at the king in "silence." As difficult as it may be to wrap our minds around, we live in the Kingdom Banquet every day. Compare Lent to the full length mirror you use to dress for the wedding. Check yourself. How can we know if we're well dressed or something is out of place?
