How can we apply Jesus' example of associating with sinners in our lives? Setting the Scene – Matthew 9:11 “When the Pharisees saw this, they said to His disciples, ‘Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?’” • Jesus is literally seated at Matthew’s house (v. 10), sharing a meal with people despised by respectable society. • The Pharisees—rigorously religious yet spiritually blind—object, revealing hearts that valued separation over salvation. What Jesus’ Table Fellowship Teaches Us • God’s heart seeks the lost (Luke 19:10). • Mercy outranks ritual (Hosea 6:6; Matthew 9:13). • Holiness is not fragile; it transforms what it touches (Mark 1:41-42). • True righteousness welcomes repentance instead of resenting sinners (Luke 15:2). Practical Steps for Following His Example Today • See people, not labels – Look beyond “addict,” “atheist,” or “outsider” to the person God knit together (Psalm 139:13-14). • Start with hospitality – Share coffee, a meal, or a simple invitation (Romans 12:13). Jesus used tables, and so can we. • Listen before speaking – James 1:19 encourages us to be “swift to listen, slow to speak.” Hearing stories builds trust. • Speak the gospel naturally – 2 Corinthians 5:20 calls us ambassadors; weave grace into everyday conversation. • Keep Scripture central – Faith comes by hearing the word of Christ (Romans 10:17); don’t trade truth for acceptance. • Persevere in love – Galatians 6:9 reminds us not to grow weary; changed lives often take time. Guardrails That Protect Our Witness • Stay prayer-saturated and Spirit-led (Ephesians 6:18). • Maintain accountability—bring a mature believer along when wisdom dictates (Mark 6:7). • Refuse to compromise morality (1 Corinthians 15:33). Engage without imitating sin. • Draw clear lines where Scripture does (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). Encouragement to Keep Going • Jesus’ presence goes with us (Matthew 28:20). • Even the hardest heart can turn, just like Matthew the tax collector (Luke 5:27-28). • Heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:7). Walk into your week ready to pull up another chair at the table—confident that the same Savior who loved sinners then is loving them through you now. |
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