Topical Bible: Entertainments: Invitations to Often Only to Relatives and Friends

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◄ Entertainments: Invitations to Often Only to Relatives and Friends ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, social gatherings and entertainments were integral parts of community life, often reflecting the cultural and religious values of the people. Invitations to such events were typically extended to relatives and close friends, emphasizing the importance of familial and communal bonds.

The practice of inviting primarily relatives and friends to entertainments is evident in various biblical narratives. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus addresses this custom in the context of a parable, highlighting the tendency to invite those within one's social circle. He states, "When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or your rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return and you be repaid" (Luke 14:12). Here, Jesus challenges the conventional practice by encouraging His followers to extend hospitality beyond their immediate social network, promoting a spirit of generosity and inclusivity.

The Old Testament also provides insights into the nature of social gatherings. In the Book of Job, we see Job's children holding feasts in their homes, inviting their siblings to partake in the celebrations: "His sons used to take turns holding feasts in their homes, and they would invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them" (Job 1:4). This passage illustrates the familial focus of such entertainments, where kinship ties were strengthened through shared meals and festivities.

The cultural context of the ancient Near East further underscores the significance of inviting relatives and friends to social events. Hospitality was a highly valued virtue, and the act of sharing one's home and resources with others was seen as a reflection of one's character and faithfulness to God's commandments. The emphasis on inviting those within one's community can be understood as a means of reinforcing social cohesion and mutual support.

However, the teachings of Jesus often call for a re-evaluation of these social norms. In the parable of the great banquet, Jesus illustrates the kingdom of God as a feast where the invitation is extended to those beyond the immediate circle of friends and family. The host instructs his servant, "Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the city, and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame" (Luke 14:21). This parable serves as a reminder of the broader call to love and serve all people, reflecting the inclusive nature of God's kingdom.

In summary, while the tradition of inviting relatives and friends to entertainments is well-documented in the Bible, the teachings of Jesus encourage believers to expand their hospitality to include those outside their immediate social circles. This shift from exclusivity to inclusivity aligns with the broader biblical themes of love, grace, and community.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 1:9
And Adonijah slew sheep and oxen and fat cattle by the stone of Zoheleth, which is by Enrogel, and called all his brothers the king's sons, and all the men of Judah the king's servants:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 14:12
Then said he also to him that bade him, When you make a dinner or a supper, call not your friends, nor your brothers, neither your kinsmen, nor your rich neighbors; lest they also bid you again, and a recompense be made you.
Torrey's Topical Textbook