The paradox of Jesus' invitation in Matt 11
Ian Paul
31.05
5 July 2023
12 November 2025
The gospel lectionary reading for Trinity 5 in this Year A is another odd selection of verses, Matthew 11.16–19 and 25–30. The lectionary omits the challenging words of Jesus' judgement of the cities where he has ministered—but in fact these are integral the passage, which explores the paradoxes of Jesus' ministry and response to it.
Come and join James and Ian as they explore the passage and the issues around reading, hearing, and preaching on it.
Discussion of the first half of the chapter can be found here: https://youtu.be/VzlEolwOt-k
Written discussion of this passage can be found here: https://www.psephizo.com/biblical-studies/the-paradoxical-invitation-of-jesus-in-matthew-11/
Revd James Blandford-Baker is vicar of Histon and Impington, two villages just north of Cambridge. Revd Dr Ian Paul is Associate Minister of St Nic's, Nottingham, and writes the widely-read blog www.psephizo.com. Full written commentary behind the discussion can be found on the blog each week.