Day #12: January 12, 2009 - Matthew 9:1-17

Returning from the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee, Jesus went to His own town, Capernaum. There the faith of some men was evident when a paralytic, lying on a mat was brought to Jesus. Mark explained that four men lowered him through the roof (Mark 2:3-4). Several religious leaders were present and heard Jesus tell this man, Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven. Apparently the illness had resulted from his sin. Jesus was claiming divine authority, for only God can forgive sins (Mark 2:7; Luke 5:21). The leaders stumbled over this and said to themselves, Jesus is blaspheming!

This was the first opposition of the religious leaders to Jesus. Knowing their thoughts, Jesus asked them whether it is easier to say one’s sins are forgiven, or to tell him to arise and walk. While either statement could be spoken with ease, the first would be “easier” in that it could not be disproved by onlookers. If, however, Jesus had first said, Get up and walk, and the man remained paralyzed on his mat, it would be clear Jesus was not who He claimed to be. Jesus therefore spoke not only the easier words, but He also spoke of healing, thereby proving He has power to perform both acts, healing and forgiving sin. As a result the crowd was filled with awe. They recognized the authority behind such actions, and they praised God.


After Matthew began to follow the Lord (Matt. 9:9), he held a dinner at his house. Since he had invited many of his associates to this dinner, many tax collectors and “sinners” were present. Perhaps this was to introduce them to the Savior. The Jews hated tax collectors, for they collected money to support the Romans, and tax collectors often took in more than necessary and pocketed the difference. Thus the Pharisees, who would never eat with such people, asked Jesus’ disciples why He was eating with them. The Lord’s response demonstrated that His ministry is directed toward those who realize they have a need: Only sick people need a doctor. The Pharisees did not think they were sinners (sick) so they would never have sought out the Lord (the Physician). The Pharisees always brought the proper sacrifices, but they were totally lacking in compassion toward sinners. When mercy is lacking, then religious formalities are meaningless (Hosea 6:6).

Not only did the Pharisees question Jesus’ participation in this feast with tax collectors and “sinners,” but disciples of John the Baptist also came and asked Jesus a question about taking part in such feasts. It was right for John and his disciples to fast, for they were calling people to repentance and to the coming kingdom. But John’s disciples asked why Jesus’ men were not fasting too.

Jesus answered that the kingdom is like a great feast (Matt. 22:2; Isa. 25:6), in this case a wedding banquet. Since the King was now present, it was inappropriate for Him or His disciples to fast. At a wedding, people are happy and are eating, not mourning or fasting. Jesus did, however, anticipate His rejection for He added that a time would come when the bridegroom would be taken away.

Then He pictured the relationship between His ministry and that of John the Baptist. John was a reformer seeking to bring about repentance among those steeped in the traditions of Judaism. Jesus, however, was not out to patch up an old system, like sewing a new unshrunk cloth on an old garment, which would then tear, or pouring new wine into old wineskins, which would then burst. His purpose was to bring in something new. He had come to lead a group out of Judaism into the kingdom based on Him and His righteousness. True righteousness is not built on the Law or on Pharisaic traditions, but upon the Lord Jesus Christ and His words of life.

SO WHAT? (what will I do with what I have read?)

We live in a valley full of "tax collectors". How will we ever reach them unless we rub shoulders with them - unless we truly befriend them and love them and invest our lives in them? God, drive the COV vision into every heart of those who attend our church. Remind each of us every day that this is our job - our responsibility - to build bridges for people to find Jesus.

( Jesus)"I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6 (NIV)

Lord, make me a bridge builder. Lord, help me take advantage of every devine opportunity to be a witness for you.

"But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect..." 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)

PRAYER

Remind me Father, every moment of everyday that your mission is people. "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost." Luke 19:10 (NIV)

I want Your mission to be my mission. Lord, I know you want the mission of this church to be Your mission. Help me lead and pastor and shepherd people to this end.