How can we emulate Jesus dining with "tax collectors and sinners" in our lives? The Scene in Matthew 9:10 “While Jesus was reclining at table in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came to eat with Him and His disciples.” What Jesus Modeled at the Table • Intentional proximity: He chose to be where people far from God felt welcome. • Confident holiness: Purity was not compromised; His presence brought light into darkness (John 1:5). • Transforming grace: Relationship preceded repentance, yet repentance always followed (Luke 5:31-32). Why This Matters Today • “The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:10) • The Great Commission sends us out just as Christ was sent (Matthew 28:19-20). • Our homes, cafés, and break rooms can become mission fields where the gospel meets real life. Practical Ways to Pull Up Another Chair • Share ordinary meals: chili on a Tuesday night communicates welcome as powerfully as a banquet. • Invite across lines: coworkers, neighbors, classmates—especially those overlooked or avoided. • Listen first: genuine curiosity opens hearts (James 1:19). • Tell your story: weave the gospel naturally into conversation (1 Peter 3:15). • Celebrate milestones: birthdays, promotions, recovered sobriety—Christ rejoices with them through you. • Follow up: a text, an offer to pray during the week, or another meal keeps doors open. Guardrails for Faithful Witness • Keep biblical convictions clear; love never excuses sin (Romans 12:9). • Avoid environments that draw you toward temptation (1 Corinthians 10:12-13). • Engage alongside mature believers when possible—Jesus sent disciples two by two (Mark 6:7). • Saturate gatherings in Scripture before and after; the Word guards and guides (Psalm 119:105). Promises to Remember • “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) • “So is My word that goes out from My mouth: it will not return to Me empty.” (Isaiah 55:11) • “Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4) |
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