One of the things that in this passage that stands out is how the Pharisees respond to what they see Jesus doing. Let’s focus in specifically on what they say to inspire Jesus’ parable.
In verse 2 we read about Pharisees grumbling that “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” The Pharisees had made a name for themselves by being exclusive towards sinners. They exalted themselves by putting down and labeling others.
Then Jesus comes along, and they recognized that He was smart enough to be part of their elite group, but He didn’t have any desire to be. They seem insulted and hostile because Jesus chose to be different and openly associate with those who they intentionally chose to exclude and put down.
Which brings me to our big idea: Is there someone you are intentionally excluding in your life? How would you feel if Jesus made it a point to hang out with them instead of with you?
While this thought is very simple, it is also pretty challenging, and if we pay attention to it, this thought has the potential to be life changing.
This thought was inspired by studying the Walking With Jesus “Reflective Bible Study” package. To discover insights like this in your own study time, click here and give Reflective Bible Study a try today!
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