The "Marriage Feast" --- When?

There are still many who equate the timing of the marriage feast (and the "Bride" readying herself), to the timing of the "marriage of the Lamb".
This is based upon the assumption that the modern custom of
"Marriage/state license-first"..."Wedding reception/feast-afterward"
and that this modern custom is the key to interpreting the illustrations of Christ, which were in reality, NOT based upon modern custom, but upon Jewish custom and upon the scriptural standard of "marriage".
To clarify,
here is post, based upon a past comment I left regarding this subject:

"Do you assume that modern customs apply to the Bible's "Marriage feast"?
God considers marriage when the man and wife become one flesh (Mark 10:7,8,9; Gen.24:67) and according to ancient Jewish customs (which these prophecies/illustrations follow), the marriage feast occurred prior to the actual marriage (Gen.29:21,22,23; 24:67; Mark 10:8).
Regarding your first scriptural reference, I suggest you read on in the context....(Matt.24:26,27,28).
The "coming of the son of man" is the same event as the arrival of the bridegroom (Matt.25:6)...
This is when each Chosen One chooses what the source of their light will be. This choice seals them as slaves of Christ, or slaves of "those who sell". If they turn to Satan's agents for light, they become slaves/"sons of the wicked one". 
The wise virgins enter the spiritual feast, the "door is shut", and these faithful receive the unfurled scroll of Revelation. That knowledge prepares them to battle with Christ at Armageddon, against Satan's lies and the agent-messengers of those lies. During this time, the feast is offered to all, for all hearers to accept or reject. This is the second phase of the Great Tribulation. 

(The first phase only tests the unsealed anointed -Rev.9:4; 8:7)
This is previous to the actual consummation of the Lamb's "marriage" in heaven, and is before the end of Armageddon, and is
NOT the same as the later arrival of the Kingdom when Armageddon is finished.

At Matt.24:27,28 it says that the light which comes from Christ will shine like lightening to cover the earth...
and then he compares it to "eagles" gathering to a "carcass". 

(see also Luke 17:23,24,25,30,31,32,33,34,35; Luke17:37NKJV ; Job 39:27-28,29-30).
That "lightening" is the knowledge which his spiritual soldiers/angels/faithful anointed, have been armed with at the marriage feast. (Nahum 2:4; Ps.148:8; 18:12; Heb.12:1; Matt.24:27,28)
Verse Luke 17:24,25 says that Christ will first be rejected when he arrives.
This rejection is through the treatment of his prophets, during the rejection of Christ's message ("lightening"), through them.

It seems you are saying that the Kingdom paradise comes to planet earth, at the same time as the marriage feast.
This is not correct. Tell me, why does Luke 12:35,36,37 show Christ returning FROM (AFTER) the marriage feast when he examines his slaves....and yet Matt.25:10 shows that the examination and judgment comes BEFORE the marriage feast?
Why do you assume that seeing the kingdom of God is the same as gaining acceptance into the marriage feast?
Do you think that those who partake of the feast (Both good and wicked -Matt.22:10) are the same as the bride herself who receive the first resurrection... the heirs of the kingdom who are born again as spirit?"

The "marriage feast" is an outpouring of spiritual food...the mysteries of God fully disclosed to God's prophets through the opening of the seven seals by Christ. Any "leaving the city" are invited to this feast upon the testimony of the "slain" "two witnesses". This is previous to the Bride's Marriage/"adoption" by God (in heaven), and the arrival of the Kingdom to earth (Rev.21:2,3,4,5).
The Kingdom Covenant which is seen descending from Heaven (when the Kingdom begins),
is "prepared as a Bride adorned for her husband", because that Kingdom Covenant will not be consummated until life is brought to the earth, during the "second" resurrection (Rev.20:4-5).

I do realize that these interpretations and their scriptural basis, have not been taught to "Jehovah's Witnesses". The scriptures which address these things, were misapplied and miss-interpreted.
But now is the time for "scrolls to be opened" (Rev.20:12)
(http://pearl-newscrolls.blogspot.com/)
For any questions which may arise due to the statements above, please use the contact form on the right side of this page.
Love in Christ,
Pearl

Part I -- "Invited" and "Chosen" at the "Marriage Feast"

This comment was left at the end of 
 "Judgment of 'Heaven' and 'Earth'"

"Pearl...you said, "Chosen ones will either pass or fail Satan's sifting".
Please don't take this as picking, but "many are Invited but few are chosen". 
"Chosen" are those who have passed all tests. 
Pearl, you should say, "Invited ones will either pass or fail Satan's sifting".
After that sifting, then they are "Chosen", and thus then fit to be Yhwh's Witnesses ---not before. 
Otherwise, all Invited could be called "Chosen", 
and they are not. :-) "
- - - - - - -

MY REPLY:

I assume you are referring to Matt.22:14?
If so, I am glad you brought this up, because the "Watchtower" has never taught the distinction between the choosing which takes place within the marriage feast, and the "calling", choosing, and sealing of the faithful which God does when he inducts a member of Christ's body (2Pet. 1:10; Rev.17:14). 
God has made many kinds of choices toward individuals, both spirit and human, as well as toward groups.
Not all of God's choices (choosing) are the same one.  I hope to clarify the difference between these two particular choices of God, and those who are chosen in each setting...how they differ from each other, and how they overlap. This Part I will clarify the "choosing" which takes place at Matt.22:14 within the marriage feast.
Part II will clarify the "choosing" of Christ's Bride, and when the Chosen Ones of Christ's body are expected by God, to begin to bear witness about Him.

We should begin by going to the context of Matt.22:14, to get an overall view of the parable. Please read it.
(Matt.22:1-14  -click (HERE) to read)
All Jesus' parables about this prophetic Feast, as well as all scriptures related to it, must be cohesive and harmonious. They will be, if our interpretation of each of them, is accurate.

We learn from Jesus' reference to the marriage feast at Matthew chapter 22, that there were initial invitees to His Father's spiritual feast (Matt.22:2,3). These can correspond to the ten virgins, who knew enough to wait in attendance for the arrival of the Bridegroom, so that they could enter this Feast with him (Matt.25:1,6,7). These then, were among the initial invitees to the marriage feast. As it turns out, "half" of them were not worthy of their invitation (Matt.25:3,8,9,10,11,12,13) and were later turned away by the Bridegroom (2John 1:10,11;  2Cor. 11:3,4;  2Thess. 2:10;  2John. 1:10).
  Did they become anointed virgins when they were invited to the feast?...when the Bridegroom arrived?...or when they went inside the feast? Or, were they such before their invitation to the feast, their admittance, or before the Bridegroom's arrival? 
Did they have lamps to shed light before they entered the feast, or did they receive them inside?
Is being chosen as a spiritual virgin, the same as being chosen inside the marriage feast?

The foolish virgins were not shut out because they were shining their witness lamps previous to being chosen inside the feast, or as you put it...
after they prove faithful..."then they are "Chosen", and thus then fit to be Yhwh's Witnesses ---not before." 
They were shut out due to their choice of light-source. When they later arrived and spoke to the Bridegroom, he did not acknowledge them as invited to the marriage feast, any longer. Their invitation was revoked, because their contribution to the illumination inside, was now unfit for inclusion.
There is no room for darkness, inside the spiritual feast of God (Matt.6:22,23; Isa.5:20; Luke 11:35;  1John 1:6).

The five wise virgins, "brought receptacles" filled with oil along with their burning lamps. What is the "receptacle" that holds "oil"? We learn that at Luke 6:45...
"The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart."
The light an anointed virgin shines, comes from her heart. This is the source of life (Prov.4:23), and where the truth is cultivated (Luke 8:11,15). That truth comes up from the heart and forth through our lips (Luke 6:45 C), like light from a lamp, to shine on all in the house (Luke 8:16,17,18; Matt.5:15,16)..
What is the fuel that keeps such a heart, burning with the light of truth?
The wise virgins, kept within their heart (receptacle), their original provision of Holy Spirit ("Oil") (1Cor. 6:19;  1John 2:24,27,28;  1Cor. 2:13), sourced in their anointing. They let no one take it from them (1John 2:26;  2Cor. 11:2,3,4,20,12,13,14,15;  2Pet. 3:17,14; Rev.14:5,4; 3:4,11). Holy Spirit remained the source of their light (John 8:12; 1:4;  2Cor. 4:6).

Not so the foolish virgins. They became dependent upon those who sell oil as the source of their light (Matt.25:8,9,10; Rev.13:17). Their speech is sourced in the spirit they paid for, bought in exchange for their chastity to Christ (2Cor. 11:2,3,4; Rom.1:25,28). They became indebted to, and soiled by, a system of spiritual commerce (Matt.21:12,13; Isa.28:10; Eze.17:4; Nahum 3:16; Rev.18:23), and had surrendered their virginity and freedom of speech for Christ. 
These foolish Chosen ones, are those who will have taken from them, even what they only imagine they have paid for and gained (Luke 8:18; 12:19,20; Rev.3:17,18; Eze.7:12,18; Rev.13:17,8,7).

If we return to the marriage parable, we see the evening continues after the five foolish virgins are sorted and rejected (Matt.25:11,12), and many of those originally invited (to the spiritual feast), have been rejected, and judged (Matt.22:7,8).
Many of the newly invited who gain entrance, are considered unrighteous/"bad" (Matt.22:8,9,10). These are not members of the foolish virgins, nor of the wise/Bride. They are "anyone" God's servants find, "leaving the City".
     At Matt.22:9, the Greek actually says specifically...
       "diexodous"
         G1327
         n_ Acc Pl f
         THRU-OUT-WAYS
         EXITS
         ...that although it is often translated ("street corners", "broad way", etc.),
         it is those who are already on the road "leaving" the City (Rev.17:18), which are invited to
         this end-time spiritual feast of truth.
Now these ones also become invited wedding guests. Does this mean that they are now "unrighteous"/"bad" anointed... selected by God to be candidate priests and kings? 
No, all virgins have already been sorted, judged, and sealed as to whose commerce they belong (Rev.3:18; Isa.55:1,2), and whose provisions they will receive (Rev.21:6; John 4:14; Rev.22:17; 19:9).
No, these "unrighteous" invitees are simply invited to have a share in a very special meal (Matt.22:9). They are among the "many invited" of Matt.22:14. Of all the newly invited that fill the Hall with guests (Matt.22:10)...there are only a few chosen virgins who entered in the company of the Bridegroom (Matt.25:10).
Yet what of those who are "chosen" inside the feast, from among the throngs (including "bad") who were evacuating from the "City" and invited off the streets?
Who will become the smaller group of those "chosen", among the "invitees" in this particular setting?

Well we get our first clue by seeing someone invited into this feast, but not "chosen". 
He is thrown out, due to not wearing the proper attire (Matt.22:11,12,13). The required wedding garment is Love and respect toward the Bride and Groom (Col.3:14,15,16,12), who have a right to expect peaceful, respectful behaviour... gratitude and appreciation for what has been prepared, honor, and humble receptiveness toward the true light of Christ (Rom.13:14,13; Gal.3:27; Eph.4:24; Col.3:10). 
  The opposite of that would be contention, criticism, disrespect, finding fault, and grumbling. 
What Host would continue to welcome such a guest? 
In this parable, the Host is Almighty God, His Son, and His new Daughter. These are who the guests must show loving honor to... Their Hosts who are providing and offering the Feast...
The Father of the Bridegroom (James 1:17; Isa.65:13; 1:19; Matt.22:2,4; Isa.25:6; Ps.36:8; 46:4-5; Rev.22:1; Isa.60:14; Rev.3:9), 
the Bridegroom (Isa.55:1-2; John 7:37; 4:13-14; 6:35,51,55,63), 
and the Bride (Rev.22:17; John 13:20). 
  If those invited come to partake of this spiritual feast, and show a lack of loving respect for it's Hosts, they will lose out on the provisions of life...and be "thrown into the darkness outside" (Matt.22:13).
Does this mean that the "bad" (Matt.22:10) cannot be graced with spirit and understanding? No.
Even among the "bad" invitees to the marriage feast;
God does not reproach, but will give Holy spirit and understanding to those who sincerely and humbly ask for, and accept it 
(James 1:5; Luke 11:13).

The table is set (Matt.22:4). The nourishing provisions are ready to be taken and delighted in.
There are a wide variety of guests... each with their own palate, preferences, and ability to appreciate what is offered. What is yet needed for the guests to truly benefit from all that is presented?

Knowing that this wedding feast is not literal food, but spiritual...
what is needed for someone to benefit from God's spiritual provisions placed before them?
Well we know the one thrown out did not benefit, due to a lack of humility, respect, appreciation, and love. Why? 
What do these characteristics have to do with deriving benefit from spiritual food? 

"At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this way was well-pleasing in Your sight." (Matt.11:25)
"The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables so that, "'they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise they might turn and be forgiven!" (Mark 4:11,12)

Of all those... righteous and unrighteous, who have been invited to partake of the marriage feast,
not all will understand and benefit from what is before them. Why? What do they require in order to derive the full benefit?
Jesus referred to what is necessary for understanding....
"However, as it is written: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived" -- the things God has prepared for those who love Him--
these are the things God has revealed to us  by  his  Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God." (1Cor. 2:9,10)
"But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you." (John 14:26)

Who is it that decides that the humble and child-like will receive Holy Spirit, so that they can grasp and benefit from the Marriage Feast?
"Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven." (Matt.16:17)

So when we read at Matt.22:14, that God "invites" "many" to the marriage feast, but only chooses a few among those invited...
what do you think they are being "chosen" for?
Within the setting and parable of the marriage feast, they are chosen by God to be capable of understanding the spiritual feast placed before them, with all the benefit that results from it,
or not (Matt.7:14; 22:14). 

Those invited to the marriage feast, are offered the true words of God (Rev.19:9NIV ; John 16:13; Rev.1:1; 22:6; 10:7).
Yet understanding and appreciating what's offered, is still up to God, who chooses to whom He reveals that life-giving spiritual light. [(John 12:40) or (2Cor. 4:6; Luke 24:45) (Matt.13:11; John6:44; 14:6)]
It is not enough to be present at the feast, nor to be exposed to it's provisions.
Not all who look over the dishes, nor partake of each course, will appreciate it's true value, nor even understand it. 
God chooses which invited guests will have their eyes and ears opened to understand the final sacred secrets of God (Dan.12:4,9; Rev.5:1; 22:10; Isa.29:18; 1:19) 
(Isa.65:13; Hosea 4:10,11; Micah 2:11; Amos 8:11,12; Rev.6:6; 18:8,3,4)
The marriage feast "invitation" is open to all, not just anointed (Matt.22:8,9,10).
The "dishes" are within reach of the entire world, including all those anointed and originally invited. 

  To gain spiritual entry to, partake of, and benefit from the marriage feast; holy spirit is required. The foolish virgins will not have the spirit required for insight and perception into God's deep, final mysteries. Because they have exchanged their chastity for a different spirit/source of oil, they will remain in the darkness outside, shut out from light of God 

(Isa.29:11,12; Mark 4:12;  2Thess. 1:9).
Those "leaving the City" in particular, are given a late invitation to partake of the meal.
But not all who are exposed to the marriage feast, will be "chosen" to understand  it.

This has nothing to do with being chosen as member of Christ's Bride.
Such chosen virgins can lose their chastity, even after they are so selected (John 6:70;  1Cor. 6:15,16;  2Cor. 11:3; Rev.17:2). 
I will cover this more, in Part II.

The scriptures have recorded for us an actual incident which occurred with Jesus. I believe it can augment the understanding of God's "choosing" within the Marriage Feast parable.

26 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. 27 Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.”
28 Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?”
29 Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”
30 So they asked him, “What sign then will you give that we may see it and believe you? What will you do? 31 Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’”
32 Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. 36 But as I told you, you have seen me and still you do not believe." (John 6:26-32,36)

Jesus was the visible host, who provided physical bread to the crowd. They followed after him for more of that food "that spoils". Jesus told them that they should have seen the significance behind the miracle (John 6:26), to the fact that, through the signs he performed, it was proven that God was bearing witness about Jesus (John 8:18; 5:36; 7:31; 2:23; 10:37,38)... that Jesus was approved by God to be His channel of food "that endures to eternal life". 

What did the individuals in that crowd need to do to benefit from such spiritual food? 
Jesus answered, "Believe in the one he has sent." (John 6:28,29), according to the witness God was already providing, which miraculous bread, they themselves ate. 
They also needed to recognize, that when such spiritual food is provided, it is not from Christ, nor from Moses, nor from the Bridegroom, nor from the Bride, nor from the Virgins.... but that God is the ultimate source (Matt.22:2; Rev.5:7; Rev.19:9NIV ; John 15:15). 

Those who attend the marriage feast have the same choice of faith before them.
They will see the Virgins, both the wise and the foolish. They will see God's own testimony, given in and through, the fulfillment of the signs which were prophesied by God, to occur. 
The crowd who ate literal bread from Jesus saw that miraculous sign, and yet, they still did not believe that he was the source of heavenly bread (John 6:36).
Will the Father bless such faithless invitees of the marriage feast with His Holy Spirit, that they might share in the opening of the seven seals? Does He first require the "garment" of love, humility, faith, appreciation and respect?

The events of John chapter six, continue...
"41 At this the Jews there began to grumble about him because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” 42 They said, “Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, ‘I came down from heaven’?”
43 “Stop grumbling among yourselves,” Jesus answered. 44 “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day. 45 It is written in the Prophets: ‘They will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who has heard the Father and learned from him comes to me. 65 He went on to say, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled them.” (John 6:41-45,65)
So once again we see, that unless the Father *chooses* to enable someone by means of His Holy Spirit (Dan.12:10);
they are unable to taste and digest the living bread that endures to eternal life. Neither are they able to ingest, understand, and benefit from, the marriage feast.

We saw that although Jesus was before the crowd, offering spiritual bread from heaven that could result in eternal life;
not many were capable of appreciating the provision of God, due to a lack of faith in God's messenger.
How might that happen, when God's prophets serve the marriage feast, under the direction of the Bridegroom and his Father?

It is one thing to enjoy literal bread appearing from the hand of a carpenter's son, and another to heed the words of the Son of God due to faith in him (John 10:26).
It is one thing to enjoy a consideration of prophetic understanding (1Cor. 14:15; Eze.33:32), 
and another to accept and heed a prophet, because you have tested (1John 4:1,6; Matt.7:20), and believe they are a prophet of God (Matt.10:41; Jer.26:5; John 13:20). 
It is one thing to read a blog written by a self-professed prophet, 
and another to discern, accept, and appreciate that the provisions before you are sourced in God's Word of Truth (1Pet. 4:11; John 16:13; 8:47), God's spirit (Matt.10:20; Eph.6:17), and are the "true words of God", which is the marriage feast.

The "invitation" to the marriage feast is open to "all leaving the city" in the time of the end (Eph.3:5; Dan.12:4; Matt.13:12; John 16:13; Rev.10:7; 21:6).
To benefit from that invitation and the provisions that follow, one must be chosen to understand it, by means of God's spirit (1Cor. 2:10; John 14:26; Ps.36:9). 
That spirit is only given to those who have clothed themselves with love, faith, humility, appreciation, and respect.
To partake of God's table; those invited must also NOT be partaking of the table of demons 
(1Cor. 10:21;  2Thess. 2:9,10,11; Jer.5:31) such as the 5 foolish virgins choose to do 
(Matt.25:9,10 A; Rev.13:17,18; 16:13,14,15;  1Tim. 4:1;  Luke 11:35; Col.2:8; Rev.13:10,7,8).
Based upon these requirements, those who are chosen to understand the final sacred secrets of God, will be "few", 
despite the "banquet hall" being "filled" with invitees (Matt.22:10,14).
- - - - - - -
Next...
Part II -- "Chosen" to Belong to the Bride
(to be continued)
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Is "leaving the city", enough?

DONE EDITING
Many who were associated with the "Watchtower" organization, have lost cherished things, due to being cast off as wicked by their local congregation. The spiritual path each one has chosen afterward, has varied. Which of those post-"Watchtower" paths, leads to eternal life?
What follows, are excerpts from my reply to someone who asked such questions, after his rejection of the wicked steward's wormwood waters, and his exodus from the "City" of apostate Jerusalem. He wants to know how God views these decisions, and what reward he can expect for his discernment and decisive action to cease his association with God's rebellious and idolatrous nation.
- - - - - - -
(2Cor.6:16-18; Eph.4:24-25; 5:11; Ps.26:4; Rev.18:4; Jer.51:6,9,45; Isa.48:20; Matt.24:14-16)
(WT-crumble?)
- - - - - - -
My reply:
You rightly feel that your resistance to the false doctrines of the WT, was accurate and proper 

(1Tim. 6:20; Gal.1:7-8; Eph.5:11; 4:25; Col.2:8;  1John 4:1; Matt.24:4-5); 

and your refusal to submit and conform to their demands, was the right action to take (Rom.8:15; Gal.1:10) (obey-men?).
According to Christ's illustration of the marriage feast (Matt.22:1-14) (marriage-feast), many such perceptive ones are seen, "leaving the city" (marriage-feast) (invited-chosen-marriage.feast).
They are leaving, because they no longer desire to be in it, due to what they perceive about it. Many are leaving in obedience to Rev.18:4 (Luke 17:26-37) (Flee-where?).
Is that enough to receive life?
Our situation today is patterned after the situation in first-century Jerusalem. They too had to flee the City in order to survive God's wrath upon Jerusalem after it had rejected His son 

(John 3:36; 8:37; Acts 4:10-12; Matt.23:31-34; John 16:2; Rev.11:7,9; Mark 13:13; 8:35; Rev.17:6; 18:24; Matt.23:35-38; 21:43). God's wrath against His unfaithful city was expressed through a removal of protection, so that their enemies (Romans) could overtake and destroy them.

There were Christians who kept close in mind, Christ's warning to flee when they saw the Romans surround the City (Luke 21:20-21). Did others, who were not Christians, also flee? Those who wished to avoid the mounting tensions and conflict, likely did. Was it just a fleeing the city, that ensured the salvation of eternal life, and divine approval? No. Life comes from acceptance of Christ's teachings (John 5:24; 8:51), and a doing of God's will (1John 2:17).  

Fleeing Jerusalem afforded a physical salvation, and was done by some to obey Christ, and done by others due to prudence. Neither physical protection, ensured eternal life. Those who fled, still needed to learn about Christ and obey him, in order to attain eternal life. It is the same today. Our reason for fleeing, matters. Many flee only to avoid submission to others. Some flee, due to submission to Christ. Do both motives please God?

Christ himself appoints the steward over his household, to feed them spiritual food/teachings/doctrine (Luke 12:42-46). If we are obedient to Christ, we accept his appointment of the steward he has selected, and we submit ourselves to the steward Christ has put in charge over us, even if we are anointed heirs (Gal.4:1-8; Heb.13:17). 

The appointment of the steward, does not guarantee that this steward will be faithful (Luke 12:45-46). Prophecy reveals that the final steward over all the anointed household 

(Heb.3:6;  1Tim. 3:15; Eph.2:20-22;  1Pet. 2:5,9-10;  1Cor. 3:16,9), is wicked (Luke 16:1-3) 

(2Thess. 2:1-3; Matt.24:24-25; Rev.2:20; 13:11, 14; 19:20;  1Tim. 4:1; Rev.16:13-16; 1:5) (kings-of-earth). 

Are faithful anointed exempt from ever being submissive to the one Christ appointed? If they were, how then would that steward be able to hate and "beat his fellow slaves" through a condemnation to death? (1John 3:15; Mark 13:13; John 16:2).

The remnant (remaining/last) are required to accomplish the victory of that death, in order to become sealed. (Rev.6:9-11; Mark 8:35; Rev.12:10-11; 11:7). Although you have been shunned by those in the Org., the official spiritual death is not possible for you, because you never attained to a life in the Beast/baptism into it. This lack of submission helps to clarify you, as excluded from the anointed flock. This is not to say that your lack of submission is wrong... only that it clarifies that you are not a member of the anointed household, under the steward appointed by Christ ("great star" Rev.1:20), who also became unfaithful (Rev.8:10-11; Jer.51:7; Rev.17:5; Isa.1:21).
Is it not true, that your exclusion and shunning by the Congregation, was a result of your refusal to submit and conform to all "suggestions"/requirements, so that you were unable to be baptized into "Jehovah's Witnesses"? If those requirements were not a violation of scripture, submission is warranted. Our becoming sealed as a slave of God, is through a death for Christ... a standing up against violations to scripture, not violations of our personal preferences.

It is best now, to return to Christ's illustration about those "leaving the City" in the time of the end.
The prophecies that depict our own exodus from apostate Jerusalem, extend far beyond the exodus from first century Jerusalem [as is proven at Rev.18:4 (Rev.17:2; 16:14; 5:10; 1:5), which was recorded by John after the fall of Jerusalem].
According to the rest of Christ's illustration of the marriage feast...
    ("the true words of God"/"hidden manna" IS the "marriage feast")
    (Matt.22:1-2; 4:4; Rev.19:9; 22:6; 1:1; 2:17; 5:1,5,7; 20:12; John 12:48; Dan.12:4,10)
..."Leaving the city" is only an opportunity.
The invitation to the "marriage feast", must also be accepted (Matt.22:8-10).
Not only must one "flee" the "city". One must "flee to the mountains" (Matt.24:15-16; Eze.36:1,8)

Why?
Just as eternal life did not result from leaving Jerusalem in the first century;
eternal life today does not result only from rejecting apostate Jerusalem today (as you did).
Just as eternal life in the first century resulted from learning from and obeying the teachings of Christ, through his appointed priests
(2Cor. 5:20; Rev.5:10; Mal.2:7; Zech.8:23; John 13:20; Matt.10:40-42), the same is true today. 

However, a prophet's "fruit" must be tested by the Word of God 

(1John 4:1;  2Cor. 13:5;  1Thess. 5:20-21; Matt.7:15-20), before being accepted as from God
(2Pet. 1:20-21; John 16:13; Matt.10:27; Isa.50:4; Amos 3:7; Num.12:6; Rev.10:7; 22:6) (fine-trees?).

Today, those teachings of life are found inside the marriage feast, where Christ is feeding his completed Bride, among which, are the faithful and wise "5 virgins" from the time of the end (Matt.25:1-2, 10-13) whose lamps burn with the light of Holy Spirit.
[If you need proof that Matt.22:9 literally reads, 'leaving the city', and that these are the ones invited to the marriage feast, this link should help:
(The-Marriage-Feast)]

Regarding your question about your "position"...after having left the "city"...
it is just as Jesus depicted within his illustration of the marriage feast, which feast is the source of truth and life in the time of the end
(Rev.19:7,9; 22:6-7,17; 10:7; 5:1-2,5,7; 20:12; John 15:15; Rev.22:6; Dan.7:13; 12:1,4,3,9-10).

You have rejected the City. You have left it. Now what?
God assures us through Christ's illustration, that you will receive an invitation to the marriage feast, due to your prudence (shown by your rejection of it's "wormwood" doctrines) (Matt.22:9-10).
However.....
Do you not see many on the various forums, also rejecting the false teachings of the WT, criticizing the GB and elders, and leaving the Org.? This does not result in divine approval, nor eternal life. In fact, they are the "hated birds" (Isa.34:11; Jer.51:37; Rev.18:2), that tear at the flesh (Gal.5:17; Rom.8:5) of the prominent (Rev.19:17-18). Those who eat the sins of others as sustenance, are "hated" and "unclean" before God (Prov.24:17-18; Ob.1:12). To recognize, criticize, and reject the faults of the WT leaders/Harlot, and their minion organizational Beast, does not guarantee God's approval, or eternal life.
As stated before, taking in truth, results in life (John 6:63; 12:48). Today's truth of Christ (the opened scroll of Revelation -Rev.22:7, 10), is found within the marriage feast.

So, regarding your "position"...
You are "on the broad-way leading out of the city" (Matt.22:9-10). You have received your invitation to the marriage feast. It would appear from your letters to me, that you are sampling some of it's prophetic provisions.
It is now up to you, whether or not you will accept them (John 13:20) with appreciation (Matt.22:11-13;  1Pet. 5:5; Col.3:14)
or not (Prov.23:9; 9:8; Matt.7:6; Rev.22:14-15).
That will depend upon your heart, and the value you place upon what is offered
(Matt.7:20; John 7:17-18; 3:34; 16:13-14,8; Matt.13:44; Ps.119:11,162,14,111).
Those who accept, take in, and heed what the spirit says to the Congregation (Rev.2:29; 1:3; 22:6-7, 10) will be blessed. How? They will receive the same reward as God's prophet -- life  

(Matt.10:41; James 1:12).
The Sea Beast is Satan's current means, to sift and test those "called"
(Luke 22:31; 6:22-23; Amos 9:9; Jer.46:28; Eze.5:12; Zech.13:9; Luke 21:22)
(Rom.8:17; Heb.13:13; Rev.11:9-10;  2Tim. 3:12; Matt.5:10; Rev.13:7; 11:7;  2Thess. 2:4; Matt.24:15; Dan.11:36; 7:25; 12:7; Luke 21:24).
(http://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2015/06/the-greatest-tribulation-why.html)
   (http://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/10/when-is-satans-short-period-of-time.html)
      (pearl-disgustingthing.blogspot.com)

Here is where you fit in....
You have rejected the wicked steward.
You have rejected (not accepted the baptismal requirements of) citizenship in the apostate City.
You have left that "city" behind.
As a result, you have been invited to the marriage feast, just as promised by God to those who reject the apostasy (Matt.22:9).
Those who do not accept the invitation, are deemed unworthy of it's provisions (Matt.22:3, 8).
They do not receive life. 

  It is not enough to "leave the city".
You are sampling the provisions of the marriage feast (sourced from the opened scrolls of Revelation), which provisions, afford life to those who accept and heed them (Rev.22:7,10).
That is where you stand... your "position".
It is up to you if you deem the provisions of the marriage feast, as valuable enough to accept and follow
(Zech.8:23; Rom.2:28-29).
If you accept the provisions that Christ's Father is providing in the time of the end (Matt.22:2; Rev.5:1,7; John 16:15; Rev.1:1; 22:6-7),
you may get life, just as the prophet who provides them, does (Matt.10:41).

Love in Christ,
Pearl
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Part II -- "Chosen" to Belong to the Bride

Still under construction.
The first post has been clarified.
I am ill, and progressively working on this post.
I will put a marker where I am done writing and editing.
I will post what I can for now, but you should stop reading at the marker. I will continue to write and edit each day, as I am able.
Please read and meditate on the cited scriptures.
As always, there is a contact form in the right column should any questions arise.
Thank you for your patience.
- - - - - - -
This post is a continuation to Part I:
"Invited" and "Chosen" at the "Marriage Feast"

In Part I, scriptural evidence was presented to explain that Matt.22:14 is referring to the many secondary invitees from off the Greek: "broadway leading out of the city", "both bad and good" (Matt.22:9,10), and how from among these, "few are chosen" (Matt.22:14).
   In this Part II, scriptures will be presented to clarify, that the choosing which occurs within the marriage feast, is not the same as the choosing which occurs when God inducts another anointed member into the body of Christ.

Both Part I and Part II have been written in response to the following comment:

"Pearl...you said, "Chosen ones will either pass or fail Satan's sifting".
Please don't take this as picking, but "many are Invited but few are chosen". 
"Chosen" are those who have passed all tests. 
Pearl, you should say, "Invited ones will either pass or fail Satan's sifting".
After that sifting, then they are "Chosen", and thus then fit to be Yhwh's Witnesses ---not before. 
Otherwise, all Invited could be called "Chosen", 
and they are not. :-) "

  This comment relays the idea, that the chosen of Matt.22:14 are interpreted, as not only "invited" to the marriage feast, but have also been invited by God into the Body of Christ as his Bride.

The sealed Bride is not one of the invited guests at her own marriage feast. Those elected to become her, are expected and obligated to attend. They are the initial ones invited (Matt.22:3,5,6,8) to partake of the newly presented provisions (Rev.5:5,7; 20:12; 10:8; John 15:15; Rev.1:1; John 16:13;  1Cor. 13:10; Rev.10:7; 19:9; 21:6,7; 22:17; Dan.12:9,4,10). 
The first priests to be fed by Christ, are his apostles and prophets (1Cor. 12:28; Eph.2:20,21; Amos 3:7; Rev.10:7) because they are the foundation of all God's Temple servants  ("servants" -Matt.22:3,4,5,6; 21:34,35,36; 24:49; Zech.2:11; 4:9; Jer.26:15). The 7 stars/angels/messengers/prophets herald the battle (Hosea 8:1; Jer.4:5,19; Joel 2:1; Eze.33:3; Rev.8:2,6), to call together and feed his body of priests/7 congregations (Matt.24:31; Rev.10:7; Amos 3:7; Mark 10:43; Eph.4:11,12;  1Cor. 4:1; 3:10; Eph.2:20,21; Prov.9:1; Rev.1:20;  1Cor. 14:33; Rev.3:12) so that all priests/virgins/7 congregations of the Lord's people (1Pet. 2:10,9;  1Cor. 14:33; Rev.1:20), may distribute to all attending the Feast, as is their priestly duty (Matt.22:9,10) (Matt.25:4; 5:15) (Zech.8:23; Rom.2:28,29; Col.2:11) 
(2Chron. 31:4; Mal.2:7;  2Cor. 5:20; Lev.10:11; Neh.8:7; Haggai 2:11; Matt.14:15,16,19; John 21:17; Rev.5:10; 22:2; Matt.7:20; John 15:8)

The comment also relays the idea, that the members of Christ's Bride are not to be preachers of truth ("witnesses") until they "pass" "Satan's sifting" and are thus at that point, "chosen". Both these assertions are not correct.

One may not belong to Christ's body at all, unless chosen by God and Christ, to be so (John 15:16; Eph.1:3,4; 2:10;  2Thess. 2:13;  2Cor. 1:21,22)(1Cor. 12:18,28). Once chosen as a member, they have already received their priestly assignment to bear witness (Isa.43:10,21;  1Pet. 2:9; Heb.13:15; John 15:8; Luke 6:44,45; Isa.51:16; 50:4;  1Cor. 2:10; Mal.2:7), along with all the resources they need, to equip them to fulfill it (Matt.25:14,15,19,20,21; Rev.3:18; Ps.12:6;  2Tim. 4:2). They will prove either faithful with their witnessing assignment, or not (Rom.12:6; Heb.10:38;  1Cor. 9:16; Acts 4:20; Titus 1:3; Rom.10:14;  2Cor. 9:6; Luke 8:11; Ps.126:5; Matt.25:23,24,25,26,28,29,30). 
Those who squander the resources given them, will have all they were given, taken back (Luke 8:18). Those who are diligent, will be given more to work with (Luke 16:10,11; 19:17)....
up to and including, the final treasures/revelations, served within the marriage feast (1Cor. 13:9,10; Eph.4:13; Rev.10:7; 1:1; 19:9; 5:5; John 15:15; Rev.1:1,20; John 16:12,13,14,15),
when the Bride of Christ/Temple, reaches completion (Rev.22:17; Zech.4:9,10,14; Rev.11:4;  1Pet. 2:5; Zech.4:9; Rev.22:6).

--------------------------------

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The five wise virgins who enter the feast with the Bridegroom, were found ready (Luke 12:37; Matt.24:42; Mark 13:37). Due to being faithful with least, they are granted much, by being given more "gold" within the feast. 
While they faithfully dispense what they are given within the feast (to all guests, "both bad and good"), they are then, the sealed Bride.

  In Part I, scriptures were presented to shed light on what it means to be "invited" and "chosen" within the context of the marriage feast parable. (Part I)
  In this Part II, scriptures will be presented to show that when selected to become a member of Christ's Body, it is not the "invitation" to the marriage feast, but rather, an irrevocable calling by the choice of God. Once called, the one selected is obligated to fulfill their priestly duties, including preaching ("witnessing"), despite Satanic persecution. IF FAITHFUL WITH PRIESTLY WITNESSING, while enduring Satanic opposition; that member of the elect is not then "chosen", but rather, is "SEALED" as a faithful slave of God and Christ. 
  By means of these two posts, I hope to clarify the difference between being "chosen" at the marriage feast,
and being chosen as a member of Christ's Bride.
  Those chosen to belong to the Body of Christ are described as "called" and "chosen".
Those who fulfill the divine purpose of their calling and choosing, are described as "faithful" and "sealed".
Scriptural evidence presented in Part I, partly established that the previous four terms which refer to the Elect, are not the same experiences as being "invited and chosen" within the marriage feast. In Part I, the invitation and choosing within the marriage feast, was explained.
- - - - - - -

PART TWO -- "CHOSEN" TO BELONG TO THE BRIDE

When using such words as "our" and "we", the following article is written from the perspective of a Chosen One.
It is difficult to translate an explanation and description of such spiritual concepts and experiences, into written word. I will try my best. If questions arise, please use the contact form.

Jesus described what his Bride members would need to experience, in order to advance and fulfill their divine purpose, successfully. Their unfolding destiny is never described as an "invitation".
The path of the Elect may seem mysterious and circular, as partially described in the next two scriptures. One path is described as being drawn to Christ by the Father. They other is described as going to the Father, by means of Christ. How can both be simultaneously true?
Drawn to Christ / Come to the Father
John 6:44
John 14:6

As a first step in understanding the "called, chosen, and faithful" of Rev.17:14 (and it's distinctive contrast to the "chosen" described at Matt.22:14);
it helps to look at the first step in this progression, which the scriptures describe as...
being drawn/"called" to Christ, by God (John 6:37,39,44; Rom.8:30).
Christ is the "way, truth, and life" toward which those elected are originally drawn to, by God. As the "Word of God" (John 1:14,4,9;  1Tim. 2:5), Christ is found within the scriptures ("way" -Ps.119:105; "truth" -John 17:17; "life" - 1Pet. 1:23; John 6:63). God's spirit, draws those of complete heart, to the scriptures (which IS Christ/God's Word -"I am bread from heaven/man does not live by bread alone"). There they are helped to discover Christ as the way, the truth, and the life. By means of that knowledge (seed of life/heavenly bread/living water), such ones can progress in spiritual growth and move forward on the path of knowledge in the person of God (John 14:9 B). If the example left by Christ is fully imitated (leaving you a model. pick up torture stake.follow lamb wherever he goes.share in suffering/glory.where lord also killed.finish race) at the end of that course, one finds God (the knowledge of God, see his face, make our home, bring you to god, filled with knowledge of God, be my people, god with them.).

Summary: The Word of God provides truth that leads to life. Christ embodies that way, truth and life. If faithfully followed as Exemplar, teacher, and master; Christ leads us to God, that we become His children forever, and members of His New Creation.

- - - - - - -
These descriptive terms (called, chosen, faithful) must not be oversimplified or compartmentalized, or we will wrongly conceive their meaning. 
All three aspects of the heavenly calling are pursued continually by those proving worthy of God's selection.

Note that even those "called" were already Chosen...(Rom.8:27,28,29,30; 9:23,24) and expected to be faithful in their witnessing activities (2Tim. 1:8,9; 4:15,16).
God's calling should not be confused with an invitation, which one may decline. God's calling may not be refused (Rom.11:29). To refuse (one who speaks) is to resist (holy spirit) His spirit, break ones vow, and enter judgment (once taste to be revived)

The "calling", is to embark upon an ongoing association with Christ (1Cor. 1:9; Gal.1:6;  2Thess. 2:14; Heb.9:15;  1Pet. 2:9; 3:9)... not a checklist in a sequence of accomplished tasks. After being chosen, we continue to be called and drawn to Christ, as we progress in knowledge of Truth and continue to act in faithfulness.
Our calling is to be holy, even as Christ is Holy (1Pet. 1:15; John 15:5; Rom.11:16; 1:7;  1John 3:3;  2Cor. 7:1; Isa.35:8;  1Thess. 4:7; 3:13;  1Cor. 1:2;  2Tim. 1:9). It is a calling that continues forever (Rom.1:7; Rev.22:11), as long as the holy ones have free choice.
Through their purification in Christ (wash word/bloodwash robes), these holy ones are enabled to go to the Father (John 14:6), just as Jesus did (John 14:28,4,3,2; Eph.2:22; Rom.8:9,11;  1Cor. 6:19; John 12:26). Those proving faithful as chosen priests, become established members of God's "dwelling"/Temple/"abode" (Acts 7:49; Ps.132:7; 99:5; Isa.60:13; Eze.47:7; 37:27; Rev.21:3; 22:2).
The divine calling to be God's Holy Dwelling, never ends. Our reply to it is a personal choice that must continue forever.


(faithful--Rev.2:10)
 we continue to go to the father (see his face...keep eye on things above) throughout the growth toward spiritual maturation, which results in the stature of Christ.  (may be one as we are)
Chosen-1Thess. 1:4
Faithful in least (Luke 16:10)according to ability Matt.25:14,15
Assignments given (1Cor. 12:18)
Can lose union with the Head...becoming unfaithful after being part of the functioning body. Therefore, was working as witness while Chosen. Priests are wtinesses who declare God's glory (Isa.43:10,21;  1Pet. 2:9. Such priests can also prove unfaithful (eze.44; Jer.33:21; 5:31; Mal.2:1,2,4,8; Rev.2:20; Mal.3:3; Neh.13:29; Matt.7:
They are a part of Christ's branches, who can be "lopped off" (Rom.11:18-21; John 15:5,6; Matt.7:19,18,15,16,20,21,22,23; 25:11,12,13). Throughout the previous illustrations, Jesus makes clear that those already chosen and proving faithful in their witnessing, can fall (Eze.18:24; Matt.10:22; Rev.3:11; Col.2:8; Gal.6:9;  1Cor. 15:58;  2Thess. 3:13; Heb.12:3,5).
The Holy ones must continue to prove their calling, their choosing, and their faithfulness.
Chosen
At the point of being chosen, we are already expected to "bear fruit", or, witness (John 15:16)
Paul was not finished being called to holiness when Chosen (Acts 9:15; 22:13-16; 26:15,16; Phil.3:12,13,14)
Eph.1:4,11;  2Thess. 2:13;  2Pet. 1:10

-----------------
This post follows PART I about being invited and chosen within the "Marriage Feast" of Matt.22:1-14.
As branches in association with Christ, his called, chosen and faithful followers are given the nourishing sap of Holy Spirit, through which they also receive understanding of God's deep things. They are then expected to bear fruit, offering that knowledge to yet others. If they fail to bear this fruit of lips by witnessing, they are "lazy" slaves who have buried what the master gave them. As soon as a called one is brought into the Body of Christ and into the true vine, they are expected to be fruitful. There is no other way to prove faithful.
How then, can they only become witnesses, after proving faithful?
Faithful with what?
Jesus makes very clear what previous deeds his slaves performed, previous to being declared by him as faithful.
They made good use of what he left them with (Matt.28; bags of gold Rev.3:18) sow bountifully reap bountifully will reap if do not tire out.
Those who prove faithful with their initial assignment, are given more. If they continue faithful, what they are given grows. Jesus gives his slaves from what he himself receives from God. In the time of the end, scrolls are opened. Jesus receives more from his father, and he gives more, to those proving faithful at that time.
When the sacred secrets of God come to a finish and are fully opened, this is the marriage feast. Who are invited to this divine knowledge, first? It is god and Christ's intention that all Christ's branches receive it. They are the first to receive of Gods messages and knowledge Mal.2:7;  1John 2:20,27; John 16:15,16; spirit taught words. They are the first ones who were invited to the marriage feast. But according to prophecy, the holy ones are then being trampled, taken captive, and scattered among the Gentiles. They are overcome by the Wild Beast and it's spiritual commerce, just as the foolish virgins demonstrate. They are weighed down with the anxieties of that religious system and it's fear of pleasing men. They do not respond to God's call to the marriage feast, by attending. They prove unworthy to enter, just as the five foolish virgins did.
These are "branches" that prove fruitless, because they have lost their union with Christ. This is why God condemns them for declining the final sacred secrets, by their preference for the table of demons.
As the parable tells us,
God then decides to make the wedding feast available to all. This does not mean that all are now invited to be anointed priests. They are invited to the spiritual feast that God has given Christ, and Christ has given to those who prove ready. The virgins that entered the feast with Christ, will all be fed. Anyone hearing can partake of the living water, and invite yet others to partake.
Many are and will be invited to the opened scroll of Revelation. They are not all Chosen ones. Of all those secondarily invited, of both spiritual Jew and Gentile, not all will be chosen to understand. There will be anointed ones who will sample the feast, not understand, and reject it.
There will be "bad" off the streets who will be chosen to understand what they are reading, though not anointed.
Yet all who are given understanding and have appreciation,
will receive life.
, whether the anointed prophet, or the one who receives him.

THESE ARE THE ONES INITIALLY INVITED
Being invited and chosen within the parable of the marriage feast, is not the same being chosen to become the Bride of Christ.
Each member of Christ's body, has been called and chosen to be so, and positioned within that Body, according to God.
CHOSEN TO BELONG TO CHRIST

That calling is not negotiable, nor can it be refused. It is not an invitation. If God's calling is refused, it results in condemnation. It is not a choice. (Rom.11:29;  2Pet. 1:10; Heb.2:3) True, we can refuse God, but what happened to those who refused to attend the marriage feast? (Matt.22:8,5,6,7) The marriage feast and God's heavenly calling are not the same, but refusing Him under any circumstances, is.
After being called and chosen to belong to Christ, they can prove unfaithful, or faithful; become perfect and Holy, or not; become sealed, or not. Yet they were always chosen, right from when God chose them to be His priest and witness.

You have the invitation to the marriage feast, and the choosing which follows for those graced with grasping that feast....
confused with the anointed choosing.
All called to join the body of Christ, have been chosen. As His priests, they must immediately and consistently be God's witnesses. This is the test of becoming sealed. If they do not witness previous to being sealed, they never will be.


The ones who prove faithful, are SEALED as God's obedient slaves...not chosen.

Who is worthy?

A QUESTION:
I understand from your writing, that the marriage feast will come through those who Jesus finds watching when he returns (Luke 12:37). If the marriage feast does not exist until after Jesus returns to his faithful slaves and gives it to them, How does that fit with the preceding verse, at Luke 12:36? There it sounds like Jesus is already done with the marriage feast.

-  -  -  -  -  -  -

MY REPLY:
Very observant of you! That would seem like a contradiction.
But if we look at the order of events as the Bible depicts them as unfolding, that seeming contradiction is smoothed out.

Let's start with the origin of the marriage feast. Where do those provisions, originate?
Jesus tells us in parable, at Matt.22:2. We can see that further substantiated, at Dan.7:9-10,13 and Rev.5:1,6-7.
In all those scriptures, we see depicted the throne of the Father...
a sealed scroll in His hand which is due to be opened,
and Jesus approaching God's throne to receive that scroll.
Our Father God in heaven, is the source of the provisions of the Marriage Feast.

God has mysteries of wisdom, which no one else possesses (Rom.11:33; Mark 13:32).
Yet Jesus told us that one day, divine knowledge would become completed/abundant... 
(1Cor.13:9-10; John 16:13; Prov.4:18;  2Pet.1:19; Dan.12:4; Zech.14:7-9; Isa.29:18; 54:13; Heb.8:11; John 16:25), 
...the mysteries of God would be demonstrated/accomplished/manifested 

(Rev.10:7; Rom.16:25; Amos 3:7; Rev.22:6), 
...and Jesus would be given the knowledge of God (Rev.5:7), and he would pass it to his congregations, through their contemporary prophets (John 16:15,12-14,15; Matt.10:20;  1Cor.14:32; Rev.4:5; 5:6; 10:7; 1:20; Matt.5:15)(Rev.5:6; Jer.25:4; 44:4; Rev.22:6; 11:3).
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2017/12/what-are-seven-spirits-of-god.html The sealed scroll in question, has seven seals (Rev.5:1). The opening of those seals/sacred secrets/hidden mysteries, is depicted within the book of Revelation (Rev.6:1,3,5,7,9,12; 8:1). The opening of those seals, are connected to, the declarations of God's prophets (Rev.8:7,8,10,12) (Rev.8:13; 9:1,12-13; 10:1,3,7)
That book of Revelation, is that sealed scroll. 
The opening of Revelation (which word means, uncovering/unveiling/revealing)... 
Is, the Marriage Feast (Isa.29:18,24; Rev.19:9; 22:6).

So we have established that the first one to know God's mysteries, is God Himself, naturally.
He is the one that owns and possesses, the bounteous spiritual feast of understanding, which He prepares for the marriage of His son.
Who is the second person, to possess these hidden mysteries of God?
Revelation chapter five explains, in verses 1-10:

"1 And I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a scroll written inside and on the back, sealed with seven seals. 2 Then I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, “Who is worthy to open the scroll and to loose its seals?” 3 And no one in heaven or on the earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll, or to look at it.

4 So I wept much, because no one was found worthy to open and read the scroll, or to look at it. 5 But one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals.”

6 And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as though it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth. 7 Then He came and took the scroll out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne.8 Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. 9 And they sang a new song, saying:

“You are worthy to take the scroll,
And to open its seals;
For You were slain,
And have redeemed us to God by Your blood
Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation,
10 And have made us kings and priests to our God;
And they shall reign on the earth.”

There we learn that the second person to possess the secrets of God, is the Lamb.
Jesus Christ alone gets to view the wisdom of God and the contents of Revelation, before anyone else.
If we return to the illustrative parable of the marriage feast; this is how that would translate...
The King prepares a marriage feast for His son (Matt.22:2).
Before anyone else is able to view that feast, the Father shows His son first... what He has prepared for His son's wedding supper.
After the Bridegroom sees what his father has prepared...
  he goes to get his bride to bring her home to the banquet.
  The banquet is then open to all the guests.
  (That was the Jewish tradition)

Jesus Christ is the only one worthy, to first receive and open, the sealed scroll.
Some of the ancient prophets were given glimpses into that information, but they did not understand it. When they requested information, they were told that it would remains sealed, until the time of the End (Matt.13:16-17; Dan.12:8-9,10; Rev.10:4; 22:10).

Only after Jesus receives the marriage feast, does Jesus send out his last prophet/messenger/angel, to declare and offer that bounteous table, to the last congregation of his Bride members 
(Rev.10:7; 22:10; 1:1,20; Matt.5:15; Rev.22:6,16; Mal.3:1; Rev.10:1).
How will the messenger prophet of the covenant, who receives the scroll of bounty/wedding provisions  from Jesus, be selected?
Jesus tells us in many places...
(Matt.25:6-7,10; 24:45-47; Luke 12:35,42-44; Mark 13:33-35,36-37; Rev.2:7,17,26-28; 3:8,20; 4:1)

We saw that in order for Jesus to be given, to open, and to view the contents of the sealed scroll;
it was first required of him that he be martyred for the sake of God's Truth (Rev.5:9,12; Dan.7:13-14). 
He had thereby proven that his faithfulness to God's wisdom, was worth more to him, than his own life (John 4:34; 8:29; 18:37; 12:49-50). He faithfully obeyed God's purpose for him. He was therefore rightly rewarded by God, with an even greater measure of God's treasure store of divine wisdom.

What of subsequent recipients of that opened scroll?
They too would need to prove their worthiness 
(Mark 8:35; Rev.6:9-11; 12:10-11; John 16:2; Rom.6:5; 8:36;  2Cor.4:10). 
Their need to "die" is especially required, during the End-time Great Tribulation. At that time, the alliance of the false prophet and it's powerful and merciless Wild Beast, will put to death any who do not worship the Beast's Image (Rev.13:15,7-8,11:7). The prophet/angel to receive the message of Jesus to his last congregation, would also have needed to prove its' faithfulness, to the death. Through the ransom of Jesus and the sanctification it provides (Rev.5:9-10; Mal.2:7;  1Cor.4:1), such ones can become honored objects/vessels of God's truths 
(2Cor.5:11,18-19,20; Rom.9:20,23-24;  2Tim.2:20-21; Eph.2:10;  1Pet.5:10; Phil.1:6).

When the original invitees to the wedding feast, decline their invitation (Matt.22:3,5-6);
that feast then opens up to all... "both good and bad" (Matt.22:8-10).
God does not want His life-giving provisions to go to waste, but is willing to be generous to any who will appreciate God's gracious hospitality. Through the mercy of spirit and the sacrifice of the Bride members, that becomes the only requirement 
(John 20:21-22,23; Rev.22:17; Isa.55:1-2,5-6,7).

To review the order in which the contents of the Marriage Feast is passed down;
First, it is given directly to Jesus. Jesus Christ is the first one to sample the wedding feast that God has prepared for his marriage.
Second, Jesus gives it to his messenger/angel, a prophet.
Third, Jesus sends that angel in divine vision, to the apostle John. John records the visions in the book of Revelation. John sends that scroll, to the seven congregations.
Forth, That angel/prophet that Jesus sends with the message of Revelation, is also sent to the End-time congregation, in time for that scroll to have it's seals, opened.

So, when we read the verses in Luke ch.12, upon which your question is based....

"35 ‘Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, 36 like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. 37 It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will make them recline at the table and will come and serve them."

There we can now see plainly, that Jesus is the first to take in the contents of the wedding banquet. He is the only one worthy to receive and open that scroll.
After absorbing it, he then finds a slave of his that is awake and working to shine true light, eagerly awaiting the Master's contact... ready to open the door to understanding which Jesus provides 
(Rev.3:20; Luke 12:36; 24:45; Rev.3:7; Matt.13:13,16). 
Such a one is chosen to become his messenger prophet, to show the last congregations "the things that will soon take place". That information will be unveiled, through the opening of the seals of Revelation, by the spirit within that last prophet 
(John 15:26; 16:12-15,13; Rev.22:6; 19:9-10).

Through this consideration, I hope you can plainly see that there is no contradiction between the availability of the wedding provisions to Jesus' congregation,
and the fact that Jesus samples those provisions, first.
We may tend to think that if the feast is not yet open to us,
then it must not yet exist.
Not so.
The wedding feast has existed eternally in the mind of God. That knowledge was given to Jesus, first. It is only when the time of the End arrives, that the sealed scroll of Revelation is due to be sent to, opened to, offered to, and understood by, humankind.
Luke 12:35,36,37

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