RSV ~ Luke 14 Notes

Lk 14:1 | ISB Notes

One sabbath: Luke narrates five episodes when Jesus heals on the Sabbath (4:31-35, 38-39; 6:6-11; 13:10-17). See note on Lk 6:1.

watching him: Jesus was the object of his enemies’ constant surveillance (6:7; 11:53-54).

Lk 14:2 | ISB Notes

dropsy: A condition characterized by swelling in the body caused by fluid retention.

Lk 14:10 | ISB Notes

sit in the lowest place: A lesson on humility, where greatness is measured by concern for others and a modest estimation of self (18:14; Jas 4:6; 1 Pet 5:6). It is dishonorable to presume that one’s position, social or otherwise, will automatically win the favor of God (Prov 25:6-7).

Lk 14:14 | ISB Notes

You will be repaid: God will look favorably on works of mercy at the Judgment (6:32-36; Mt 10:42; 25:34-36).

resurrection of the just: i.e., the general resurrection (Jn 5:2829; Acts 24:15).

Lk 14:16 | ISB Notes

a great banquet: An image of the joys and blessings of the New Covenant. Israel was long invited to this feast by the prophets, yet many of the people declined when the Messiah announced the meal was ready. The Father therefore revised the guest list, summoning the despised of Israel (14:21) and the Gentiles (14:23, cf. Acts 13:46; 28:28) to enjoy the banquet in their place.

• Festal meals had great religious significance in biblical times and often symbolized covenant communion with God or others (Gen 26:28-31; 31:44-54; Ex 24:9-11; 2 Sam 3:20-21). According to Is 25:69, God was preparing a grand, messianic banquet to celebrate the salvation of all his children from Israel and the nations (13:29).

• Jesus gives us the bread of the kingdom first in the Eucharist (22:19-20) and ultimately in the communion we will enjoy with him in heaven (Rev 19:9).

Lk 14:17 | ISB Notes

had been invited: Invitations were customarily issued in two phases. The first was given far in advance of the meal, and the second when everything was ready (Esther 5:8; 6:14).

Lk 14:26 | ISB Notes

hate: An idiomatic term meaning “to love less” (Gen 29:31-33; Mal 1:2-3). Not even the sacredness of family loyalty should outweigh our commitment to Christ, since we must be willing to abandon even close relationships to follow him (Mt 10:37) (CCC 1618, 2544).

Lk 14:28 | ISB Notes

count the cost: Discipleship is a serious commitment. It is not about testing the waters or holding ourselves back from God (9:62). A complete surrender to Christ is necessary to complete the tasks of Christian living. See note on Mt 10:38.

Lk 14:34 | ISB Notes

Salt: Used to preserve or flavor food. It was often impure in the ancient world and could sometimes lose its potency. In contrast, Jesus demands from us loyalty that remains constant and does not diminish over time (14:26, 33).