In what ways can our church welcome "many tax collectors and sinners" today? Setting the Scene: Jesus at Levi’s Table “While Jesus was reclining at the table in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with Him and His disciples.” (Matthew 9:10) Why This Matters for Us • Jesus did not wait for outsiders to change before extending friendship (Luke 5:29). • He kept full allegiance to holiness while showing genuine warmth (John 1:14). • Our mission mirrors His: “The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). Practical Ways to Welcome “Many Tax Collectors and Sinners” • Offer real, face-to-face hospitality – Host regular, open meals on church grounds or in homes. – Sit with newcomers rather than clustering with close friends (James 2:1-4). • Speak the gospel plainly and kindly – “Christ died for us while we were still sinners” (Romans 5:8). – Keep sermons free of insider jargon; explain terms like grace, repentance, faith. • Remove unnecessary barriers – Post clear signage, provide greeters trained to notice anyone feeling lost. – Ensure online information is accurate so first-time guests know what to expect. • Build relationships that outlast Sunday – Pair mature believers with newcomers for meals, questions, and life help (Acts 18:26). – Celebrate birthdays, attend kids’ games, show up when crises hit. • Model transparency from the front – Share testimonies that admit past sins and highlight Christ’s rescue (1 Timothy 1:15-16). – Emphasize that sanctification is ongoing; no one “graduates” from needing grace. • Provide clear next steps toward growth – Offer introductory Bible studies open to all questions. – Create recovery or support groups anchored in Scripture (Galatians 6:2). • Serve the community side by side – Organize tangible projects—food drives, neighborhood clean-ups—where believers and seekers labor together (Matthew 5:16). – Let service reveal Christ before words are spoken. Guarding Truth While Extending Grace • “Go now and sin no more” (John 8:11) stands with “Neither do I condemn you.” • Lovingly uphold biblical standards on sin, marriage, and morality (1 Corinthians 6:9-11), yet welcome everyone to hear and experience the transforming gospel. The Expected Outcome • Outsiders glimpse the character of Christ through His people (John 13:34-35). • Some will repent and believe, becoming living proof: “That is what some of you were” (1 Corinthians 6:11). • The church itself is refreshed, remembering its own rescue and rejoicing when “there is joy in the presence of God’s angels over one sinner who repents” (Luke 15:10). |
    |