Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” New Living Translation This made the Pharisees and teachers of religious law complain that he was associating with such sinful people—even eating with them! English Standard Version And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” Berean Standard Bible So the Pharisees and scribes began to grumble: “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Berean Literal Bible And both the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling saying, "This man receives sinners and eats with them." King James Bible And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. New King James Version And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, “This Man receives sinners and eats with them.” New American Standard Bible And both the Pharisees and the scribes began to complain, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” NASB 1995 Both the Pharisees and the scribes began to grumble, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” NASB 1977 And both the Pharisees and the scribes began to grumble, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” Legacy Standard Bible And both the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” Amplified Bible Both the Pharisees and the scribes began muttering and complaining, saying, “This man accepts and welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Christian Standard Bible And the Pharisees and scribes were complaining, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Holman Christian Standard Bible And the Pharisees and scribes were complaining, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them!” American Standard Version And both the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. Contemporary English Version So the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law of Moses started grumbling, "This man is friendly with sinners. He even eats with them." English Revised Version And both the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. GOD'S WORD® Translation But the Pharisees and the scribes complained, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." Good News Translation the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law started grumbling, "This man welcomes outcasts and even eats with them!" International Standard Version But the Pharisees and the scribes kept complaining, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." NET Bible But the Pharisees and the experts in the law were complaining, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." New Heart English Bible The Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, "This man welcomes sinners, and eats with them." Webster's Bible Translation And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. Weymouth New Testament and this led the Pharisees and the Scribes indignantly to complain, saying, "He gives a welcome to notorious sinners, and joins them at their meals!" Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleSo the Pharisees and scribes began to grumble: “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” World English Bible The Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, “This man welcomes sinners, and eats with them.” Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionand the Pharisees and the scribes were murmuring, saying, “This One receives sinners, and eats with them.” Berean Literal Bible And both the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling saying, "This man receives sinners and eats with them." Young's Literal Translation and the Pharisees and the scribes were murmuring, saying -- This one doth receive sinners, and doth eat with them.' Smith's Literal Translation And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, That this receives the sinful, and eats together with them. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying: This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. Catholic Public Domain Version And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, “This one accepts sinners and eats with them.” New American Bible but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” New Revised Standard Version And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, “This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd the scribes and Pharisees murmured, saying, He receives even the sinners and eats with them. Aramaic Bible in Plain English And the Scribes and Pharisees were complaining and they were saying, “This one receives sinners, and he eats with them.” NT Translations Anderson New TestamentAnd the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying: This man receives sinners, and eats with them. Godbey New Testament And the Pharisees and scribes were murmuring, saying, that, He receives sinners, and eats with them. Haweis New Testament And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man entertains sinners, and eateth with them. Mace New Testament at which the Pharisees and Scribes murmured, saying, this man gives access to men of bad character, and eats with them. Weymouth New Testament and this led the Pharisees and the Scribes indignantly to complain, saying, "He gives a welcome to notorious sinners, and joins them at their meals!" Worrell New Testament And both the scribes and the Pharisees were murmuring, saying, "This Man receiveth sinners and eateth with them!" Worsley New Testament And the pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man entertaineth wicked persons, and eateth with them. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context The Parable of the Lost Sheep1Now all the tax collectors and sinners were gathering around to listen to Jesus. 2So the Pharisees and scribes began to grumble: “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 3Then Jesus told them this parable:… Cross References Matthew 9:11 When the Pharisees saw this, they asked His disciples, “Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” Mark 2:16 When the scribes who were Pharisees saw Jesus eating with these people, they asked His disciples, “Why does He eat with tax collectors and sinners?” Matthew 11:19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at this glutton and drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ But wisdom is vindicated by her actions.” Luke 5:30 But the Pharisees and their scribes complained to Jesus’ disciples, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” Matthew 21:31-32 Which of the two did the will of his father?” “The first,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. / For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him. Acts 11:3 and said, “You visited uncircumcised men and ate with them.” Galatians 2:12 For before certain men came from James, he used to eat with the Gentiles. But when they arrived, he began to draw back and separate himself, for fear of those in the circumcision group. Romans 14:3 The one who eats everything must not belittle the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted him. 1 Corinthians 5:9-11 I wrote you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people. / I was not including the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. / But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a verbal abuser, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. 1 Corinthians 9:22 To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. Ezekiel 34:2 “Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel. Prophesy and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Woe to the shepherds of Israel, who only feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed their flock? Ezekiel 34:11-12 For this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I Myself will search for My flock and seek them out. / As a shepherd looks for his scattered sheep when he is among the flock, so I will look for My flock. I will rescue them from all the places to which they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. Isaiah 53:12 Therefore I will allot Him a portion with the great, and He will divide the spoils with the strong, because He has poured out His life unto death, and He was numbered with the transgressors. Yet He bore the sin of many and made intercession for the transgressors. Hosea 6:6 For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings. Micah 6:8 He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? Treasury of Scripture And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receives sinners, and eats with them. Luke 15:29,30 And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends: … Luke 5:30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners? Luke 7:34,39 The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners! … Jump to Previous Angry Approval Complain Eat Eateth Eats Food Gives Grumble Indignantly Joins Led Meals Murmured Murmuring Muttered Notorious Pharisees Receive Receives Receiveth Scribes Sinners Teachers Welcome WelcomesJump to Next Angry Approval Complain Eat Eateth Eats Food Gives Grumble Indignantly Joins Led Meals Murmured Murmuring Muttered Notorious Pharisees Receive Receives Receiveth Scribes Sinners Teachers Welcome WelcomesLuke 15 1. The parable of the lost sheep;8. of the piece of silver; 11. of the prodigal son. So the Pharisees and scribes began to grumble: The Pharisees and scribes were religious leaders in Jewish society, known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and additional oral traditions. Their grumbling reflects a common theme in the Gospels where religious leaders often oppose Jesus' actions and teachings. This opposition is rooted in their perception of Jesus as a threat to their authority and traditional interpretations of the law. The term "grumble" echoes the Israelites' complaints in the wilderness (Exodus 16:2), indicating a hardened heart and resistance to God's work. “This man welcomes sinners: and eats with them.” Persons / Places / Events 1. PhariseesA religious group in Judaism known for strict adherence to the Law and traditions. They often clashed with Jesus over interpretations of the Law and issues of purity and righteousness. 2. Scribes Experts in the Jewish Law, often associated with the Pharisees. They were responsible for teaching and interpreting the Scriptures. 3. Jesus Central figure in the New Testament, the Son of God, who came to seek and save the lost. His actions and teachings often challenged the religious norms of His time. 4. Sinners In the context of this passage, "sinners" refers to those considered morally or ritually impure by the religious leaders, often including tax collectors and others marginalized by society. 5. Meal Fellowship In Jewish culture, sharing a meal was a sign of acceptance and fellowship. Jesus' willingness to eat with sinners was a radical act that signified His mission to reach the lost. Teaching Points Jesus' Radical AcceptanceJesus' willingness to associate with sinners challenges us to examine our own attitudes towards those society deems unworthy. Are we willing to extend grace and fellowship to all, regardless of their past or status? The Heart of the Gospel The Gospel is for everyone, especially those who recognize their need for a Savior. Jesus' actions remind us that no one is beyond the reach of God's love and redemption. Challenge to Religious Legalism The grumbling of the Pharisees and scribes serves as a warning against legalism and self-righteousness. We must guard against attitudes that prioritize rules over relationships and compassion. Community and Fellowship Sharing a meal with others can be a powerful act of community and acceptance. Consider how you can use hospitality as a means to share the love of Christ with others. Mission of Reconciliation Jesus' example calls us to be agents of reconciliation, reaching out to those who are lost and inviting them into a relationship with God. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Luke 15:2?2. Why did the Pharisees and scribes grumble about Jesus welcoming sinners in Luke 15:2? 3. How can we avoid the Pharisees' attitude towards sinners in our own lives? 4. What does Jesus' response to the Pharisees in Luke 15 teach about grace? 5. How does Luke 15:2 connect to Jesus' mission in Luke 19:10? 6. How can we emulate Jesus' example of welcoming sinners in our communities? 7. Why did the Pharisees and scribes criticize Jesus for welcoming sinners in Luke 15:2? 8. How does Luke 15:2 challenge the concept of religious exclusivity? 9. What does Luke 15:2 reveal about Jesus' mission and ministry focus? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Luke 15? 11. What is the meaning of Jesus eating with sinners? 12. What role did tax collectors have in the Bible? 13. Why does the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11–32 not address the older brother’s grievances more directly? 14. What does "You prepare a table before me" mean? What Does Luke 15:2 Mean So the Pharisees and scribes began to grumble• The religious leaders of the day—those who prided themselves on knowing and keeping the Law—responded to Jesus with complaining rather than celebration. • Their attitude mirrors earlier moments of Israel’s history when the people “grumbled” against God’s provision (Exodus 16:2-8; Numbers 14:2). The same heart posture that resisted Moses now resists Jesus. • Luke repeatedly notes this hostile murmuring (Luke 5:30; Luke 19:7), highlighting a pattern: human self-righteousness recoils when God’s grace is extended to those deemed unworthy. • Jesus will answer their complaint with three parables (Luke 15:3-32), revealing God’s joy over every sinner who repents—contrasting heaven’s celebration with earth’s criticism. This man welcomes sinners • The leaders label Jesus’ guests “sinners,” a term covering tax collectors, prostitutes, and anyone viewed as ceremonially or morally unclean (Luke 15:1). • “Welcomes” (lit. receives) portrays open-armed acceptance. Jesus is not merely tolerating these people; He is actively inviting them. – Luke 19:10: “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” – 1 Timothy 1:15: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” • By welcoming those far from God, Jesus embodies the Father’s heart seen in Ezekiel 34:11-16, where the Lord Himself searches for His scattered sheep. • The welcome does not ignore sin; it creates the space where repentance is possible (Luke 5:31-32). Grace opens the door; truth calls for change. and eats with them • In the ancient world, table fellowship signified friendship, unity, and acceptance. Sharing a meal declared, “We belong together” (Acts 11:3). • Jesus’ habit of dining with the outcast (Luke 7:34; Matthew 9:10) previews the banquet imagery of the kingdom (Isaiah 25:6; Revelation 19:9). • His table breaks social and religious barriers, hinting at the later inclusion of Gentiles when Peter learns, “God has shown me that I should not call any man impure or unclean” (Acts 10:28). • Revelation 3:20 pictures the risen Christ still knocking, still ready to “come in and dine” with anyone who will open the door. A shared meal remains His chosen symbol of fellowship. summary Luke 15:2 captures the clash between human religiosity and divine grace. The Pharisees grumble, exposing hearts closed to mercy. Jesus welcomes, displaying God’s eager pursuit of the lost. He eats with sinners, turning an ordinary table into a living parable of the gospel: God Himself sits down with the unworthy so that, through repentance and faith, they can rise from the table forgiven and forever part of His family. (2) And the Pharisees and scribes . . .--Here, too, we may well believe that the speakers were some of the guests of Luke 14:15. They had followed Him to see what He would do, and were at once startled and shocked to find the Teacher who had spoken so sternly to those who were professedly godly, not only talking to, but eating with, those who were, at any rate, regarded as ungodly and sinful.Greek Soκαὶ (kai) Conjunction Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely. the οἵ (hoi) Article - Nominative Masculine Plural Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. Pharisees Φαρισαῖοι (Pharisaioi) Noun - Nominative Masculine Plural Strong's 5330: Of Hebrew origin; a separatist, i.e. Exclusively religious; a Pharisean, i.e. Jewish sectary. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely. scribes γραμματεῖς (grammateis) Noun - Nominative Masculine Plural Strong's 1122: From gramma. A writer, i.e. scribe or secretary. began to grumble: διεγόγγυζον (diegongyzon) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural Strong's 1234: To murmur greatly, continue murmuring. From dia and gogguzo; to complain throughout a crowd. “This [man] Οὗτος (Houtos) Demonstrative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 3778: This; he, she, it. welcomes προσδέχεται (prosdechetai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular Strong's 4327: From pros and dechomai; to admit (figuratively) endurance); by implication, to await. sinners ἁμαρτωλοὺς (hamartōlous) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Plural Strong's 268: Sinning, sinful, depraved, detestable. From hamartano; sinful, i.e. A sinner. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely. eats with συνεσθίει (synesthiei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular Strong's 4906: To eat with. From sun and esthio; to take food in company with. them.” αὐτοῖς (autois) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Plural Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. Links Luke 15:2 NIVLuke 15:2 NLT Luke 15:2 ESV Luke 15:2 NASB Luke 15:2 KJV Luke 15:2 BibleApps.com Luke 15:2 Biblia Paralela Luke 15:2 Chinese Bible Luke 15:2 French Bible Luke 15:2 Catholic Bible NT Gospels: Luke 15:2 The Pharisees and the scribes murmured saying (Luke Lu Lk) |
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