Sermon 114

📖 Sermon 114 – The Call to True Charity

Date: [no date given]
Text: Luke 14:12–14

Introduction

Jesus continues His teaching at the Pharisee’s feast, directing attention to the motives behind hospitality. True charity is not self-serving, but reflects the generosity and grace of God Himself. He calls His people to give without thought of earthly reward.

I. A Rebuke of Self-Serving Hospitality

A. The common practice
People invited friends, relatives, wealthy neighbors — those who could repay the favor.
Hospitality was often a means to social advantage.

B. Jesus exposes the motive
“If thou bid them, they may bid thee again.” He unmasks the transactional nature of worldly kindness.

C. Charity that seeks return is not charity
It is disguised self-interest, seeking influence, honor, or repayment.

II. The Call to Disinterested Love

A. “When thou makest a feast…”
Christ assumes His followers will give generously.

B. Invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind
Those who cannot repay — those neglected or despised by society.

C. Such charity resembles God’s grace
He gives freely to the undeserving. Gospel love reflects His heart.

III. The Reward of True Charity

A. “Thou shalt be blessed”
God sees and honors selfless giving.

B. “For they cannot recompense thee”
The absence of repayment is part of the blessing — it proves the purity of the act.

C. The final recompense
“Thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.” Heavenly reward outweighs all earthly recognition.

Conclusion

Jesus calls His people to charity that seeks no return, love that mirrors the Father’s generosity, and compassion that embraces the helpless and forgotten. Such giving is remembered in eternity and reflects the very heart of Christ.