Matthew 22:1 (KJV)

What does Matthew 22:1 mean?

Matthew 22:1 says that Jesus responded and began to speak to the people again using parables. This verse introduces a new teaching moment where Jesus uses a story to make a point to His listeners.

In this setting, Jesus is addressing a crowd that includes religious leaders in Jerusalem, shortly before His arrest. The verse signals a shift to another parable, setting the stage for the story that follows. The use of parables means Jesus is about to teach an important lesson through a simple, memorable story.

The Greek behind Matthew 22:1

• παραβολαῖς (parabolais): This word means "parables" or "stories with a lesson." In the Greek context, a παραβολή (parabolē) is more than just a story—it’s a way to compare or illustrate a deeper truth. Here, it signals that Jesus is about to teach something significant in a way that invites listeners to think deeply.
• πάλιν (palin): This word means "again." Its use here shows that Jesus is repeating a pattern—He has already spoken in parables before, and now He is doing so once more, emphasizing the importance of what He is about to say.

Why Matthew 22:1 matters

• This verse marks the beginning of the Parable of the Wedding Banquet, one of Jesus’ most well-known teachings about the kingdom of heaven and those who accept or reject God’s invitation.
• Noticing that Jesus "answered" and spoke "again" in parables helps readers see a pattern: Jesus often responds to challenges or questions from religious leaders by telling stories that reveal deeper truths.
• The verse sets the tone for the following passage, signaling to readers that the next words are meant to be pondered and understood on more than just a surface level.