Luke 14:20

"“Another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I must go try them out. Please have me excused.’"

Key Reflection

In Luke 14:20, a man offers an excuse for not attending the feast by saying he has recently purchased five yoke of oxen that need to be tried out. In first-century Jewish agricultural society, cattle were crucial for plowing and farming. The phrase "yoke of oxen" reflects the economic importance and the time required for testing new animals to ensure they are fit for work. This detail underscores the practical realities faced by ancient farmers while also highlighting the social expectations placed on them to participate in communal events.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 20. I have married a wife, &c. Our Saviour here doubtless intends to teach us that the love of earthly relatives and friends often takes off the affections from God, and prevents our accepting the blessings which he would bestow on us. This was the most trifling excuse of all; and we cannot but be amazed that such excuses are suffered to interfere with our salvation, and that men can be satisfied for such reasons to exclude themselves from the kingdom of God. {n} "I have married a wife" Lu 14:26; 1 Co 7:33 __________________________________________________________________

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