Luke 14:23 (KJV)

What does Luke 14:23 mean?

Luke 14:23 describes a master instructing his servant to go out to the roads and country paths and strongly urge people to come in, so that the master’s house will be full. The verse shows the master’s determination to fill his house, even with people from outside the usual circles.

In this scene, Jesus is telling a parable at a dinner, where the "lord" (master) represents someone inviting guests to a great banquet. After the original invitees refuse to come, the master tells his servant to bring in anyone found along the "highways and hedges," meaning people far from the center of town or on the margins of society. The master’s command to "compel" them shows a strong desire to include everyone, not just the expected guests.

The Greek behind Luke 14:23

• "Compel" (ἀνάγκασον, anankason): This Greek word means to urge strongly or even to persuade forcefully. Here, it suggests the master wants the servant to go beyond a casual invitation, making sure people know they are truly wanted.
• "Highways" (ὁδούς, hodous) and "hedges" (φραγμούς, phragmous): These words refer to places outside the city, along roads and boundaries, highlighting that the invitation is extended to those who might not normally be included.
• "Servant" (δοῦλον, doulon): The word for servant here implies someone acting on behalf of the master, carrying out his wishes with authority.

Why Luke 14:23 matters

• Luke 14:23 clears up the idea that only certain people are invited; the invitation is meant for everyone, even those on the outskirts or who might feel unworthy.
• The verse emphasizes the urgency and seriousness of the master’s desire to fill his house, showing that the invitation is not half-hearted or selective.
• This verse connects to the wider parable, where those originally invited refuse, and the master’s response is to widen the invitation, hinting at a bigger message about inclusion and welcome.