Chapter Overview
This chapter strings together events that seem unrelated, but they all have something in common: Jewish accusers. Jesus heals the paralytic who is lowered down to Him through a roof by his friends. The scribes quickly accuse Jesus of blasphemy for forgiving the lame man’s sins. Following this, Jesus calls Matthew, a tax collector, to follow Him. A dinner is held at Matthew’s house and many sinners are invited to see Jesus. The Pharisees stand outside and accuse Jesus of ungodly behavior. After a brief conversation with John the Baptist’s disciples, Jesus and His disciples pass through a grainfield. The disciples eat from the field, and the Pharisees show up and accuse them of violating the Law. Jesus silences them with these words: “The Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”
Amid the Pharisees’ fault-finding mission is a series of beautiful moments with Jesus. The lame man had friends willing to work to get him to Jesus, resulting in Jesus rewarding their faith with forgiveness of sins. Matthew is called to Christ and organizes a dinner so that others may know Him. Jesus is willing and says, “I did not come to call the righteous, but the sinners.” This is a time of celebration, as He points out to John’s followers. We live in a time like this, amplified by the resurrection of Jesus. He heals and forgives and seeks to save sinners. Surround yourself with friends who pull you nearer to Him. And be that friend for someone else.
Omnipotent Father, no one can stand against You or Your Son. The Pharisees failed every time to discredit Him, as unbelievers do today. Lord God, soften their hearts to know the Savior. We pray to hear Him through all the noise and understand that all help and healing are found when we are closer to Him. Help us be wise in choosing people in our lives who help us draw near to Jesus. And Father, create opportunities for us to bring others to Him. Use us bountifully during this time of feasting and joy in Jesus.
Thought Questions
- 1The Pharisees asked, “Who can forgive sins but God alone?” A great question. Do you understand that Jesus is God and can forgive your sins?
- 2If Jesus came to call sinners, even those cast aside by others, did Jesus come to call you? Who else do you know who needs to hear that?
- 3The Jews thought they controlled the Sabbath. But Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath. Is Jesus also the Lord over your daily life and worship?