Matthew 22-23

“The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son…” (Matthew 22:2).  In this parable, the king’s invitation is rejected and his messengers are killed (23:34). Though the intended guests scorn the king’s son, common people on the roads accept the invitation to the wedding (v9).  Like those who disrespected the king’s son, the religious leaders around Jesus tried to “entangle” him with words (v15,18,35) disregarding his offer of healing and forgiveness. 
Pride and self-justification “shut the kingdom of heaven” (23:13), but the invitation is open to everyone who repents and receives Jesus with thankfulness.