What a compliment!

Reading from Jan. 15, 2009
Gen. 37-38; Ps.7; Luke 15

TOPIC: Relational Evangelism

SCRIPTURE: "Now all the tax collectors and the sinners were coming near Him and to listen to Him. Both the Pharisees and the scribes began to grumble, saying, 'This man receives sinners and eats with them.' " (Luke 15:1-2)

OBSERVATION: The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were bothered by Jesus' association with the tax collectors and sinners because of their observance of the law. They were always careful to stay "clean" according to the O.T. law. In fact, they went well beyond the law in their avoidance of certain people and situations and in their ritual washings.
By contrast, Jesus took their concept of "cleanness" lightly. He risked defilement by touching those who had leprosy and by neglecting to wash in the Pharisees' prescribed manner, and he showed complete disregard for their sanctions against associating with certain classes of people. He came to offer salvation to sinners and to show that God loves them. Jesus didn't worry about the accusations. Instead, he continued going to those who needed him, regardless of the effect these rejected people might have on his reputation. What a compliment, to be called a friend of sinners!
[Life Application Study Bible]


APPLICATION: SO

What keeps you away from people who need Jesus?

Is it said of you...

That you are a friend of sinners?

Do you receive "sinners"?

Do you eat with "sinners"?

Do you have them in your home?

Do they consider you their friend?

If NOT

WHY?



PRAYER: Father God, may I not just be accused, but found guilty of being a friend of sinners just like you were and are ! ! !