The Wedding Garment

Matthew 22:11-14

The invitation was open. The King’s wedding banquet welcomed all, without restriction. At first glance, there seemed to be no terms and conditions—until we encounter the man without a wedding garment.

Many were called, but not all were clothed appropriately. Though they were all invited and allowed into the banquet, there was still a requirement—the wedding garment.

The Unnoticed Intruder

This man could represent an unbeliever who attends church and outwardly appears like a believer. To others, he blended in. No one seemed to notice his lack of proper attire. But when the King arrived, His light exposed the man’s unprepared state.

This is a sobering reality. People may not discern the difference between an outwardly religious life and a truly transformed heart, but God does. He sees beyond appearances and weighs the heart.

The Wedding Garment: The New Man

The wedding garment symbolizes putting on the “new man.”

"You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."
— Ephesians 4:22-24

As believers, we are the Bride of Christ. The wedding garment is how we unite with Him, becoming one with Him. It is what qualifies us to enjoy the feast He has prepared.

God calls all to salvation and to be part of His Kingdom. But to remain and partake in the banquet, we must put on the new man—Christ’s righteousness and nature.

The Old and the New

If there is a new man, there must be an old man. The old man represents our sinful nature—the doorway to a life that is not of God. It is the gateway to the works of the flesh:

"Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy..."
— Galatians 5:20-21

But the new man, empowered by the Spirit, produces a different kind of fruit:

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control."
— Galatians 5:22-23

Putting on the New Man

The wedding banquet you have been invited to is an introduction to the Kingdom of God’s dear Son. However, entrance alone is not enough—you must wear the right garment.

Putting on the new man is not just about salvation; it is about continuously aligning with the Spirit and bearing His fruit. To “put on” something means to remain conscious of it.

Stay aware of the life you have received. Stay dressed in the righteousness of Christ.

Put on the new man.