Matthew Chapter 22 verse 14 Holy Bible
For many are called, but few chosen.
read chapter 22 in ASV
For out of all to whom the good news has come, only a small number will get salvation.
read chapter 22 in BBE
For many are called ones, but few chosen ones.
read chapter 22 in DARBY
For many are called, but few are chosen.
read chapter 22 in KJV
read chapter 22 in WBT
For many are called, but few chosen."
read chapter 22 in WEB
for many are called, and few chosen.'
read chapter 22 in YLT
Pulpit Commentary
Pulpit CommentaryVerse 14. - Many are called...chosen. The rejected guest is a type of a numerous class (see Matthew 20:6). All the Jews had first been called; then all the Gentiles; many were they who obeyed not the call; and of those who did come in, many were not of the inner election, of those, that is, whose life and character were worthy of the Christian name, showing the graces of faith, holiness, and love. Applying the parable generally, Origen (ap. I. Williams) says, "If any one will observe the populous congregations, and inquire how many there are who live a better kind of life, and are being transformed in the renewing of their mind; and how many who are careless in their conversation and conformed to this world, he will perceive the use of this voice of our Saviour's, 'Many are called, but few chosen;' and in another place it has been said, 'Many will seek to enter in, and shall not be able' (Luke 13:24); and, 'Strive earnestly to enter in by the narrow gate; for few there be that find it' (Matthew 7:13, 14)."
Ellicott's Commentary
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers(14) Many are called.--(See Note on Matthew 20:16.) The "calling" answers, both verbally and in substance, to the "bidding" or invitation of the parable. The "chosen" are those who both accept the invitation and comply with its condition; those who, in the one parable, work in the vineyard, and in the other, array themselves with the wedding garment of holiness. The "choice," as far as the parable is concerned, appears as dependent upon the answer given to the calling. The further truth of an election "according to the foreknowledge of God the Father" (1Peter 1:2) is not here within view, but it follows necessarily on the assumption of that foreknowledge. The "choice," which in the parable comes as the close of all, must be thought of as having been present to the mind of the All-knowing from all eternity. No one can fix time limits for the thoughts of God, and say that at such a time a purpose came into His mind as it comes into the minds of men. We are compelled in such matters to use anthropomorphic language, but we should remember, as we do so, its necessary limitations.