Matthew 22:4

Again. This second call of the parable was the third invitation to the Jewish nation. The king is anxious that the invited guests come to his feast. Though bitterly disappointed and greatly humiliated, he is willing to forgive their rudeness and to forget their insults. The fact that a little later he sent bands of soldiers out and “destroyed those murderers” (v. 7) indicates that he could have compelled those who were invited to attend the feast had he desired to do so. God might compel men to accept the gospel invitation, but He does not do so. Every man may accept or decline, according to his own choice.

Other servants. This, the second call of the parable, was given the Jews by the disciples, after Christ’s crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension to heaven. The disciples were to work first “in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea” before going forth “unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

Dinner. Gr. ariston either “breakfast”, or “midday luncheon” (see on Luke 14:12). Here it evidently refers to the noon meal. According to Josephus Life 54) it was a Jewish custom to have “dinner,” or ariston, on Sabbath at least, at the 6th hour, or noon.

Ready. That is, “the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (see on chs. 4:17; 5:2). Here Jesus referred to the kingdom of divine grace set up at the time of His first advent (see on chs. 4:17; 5:2).