Scripture
17 On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Reflection
During Jesus’ ministry in Galilee, he often interacted and socialized with non-Jewish people of a lower social class. In those days it was considered taboo, especially for a Jew to interact with non-Jewish people and or those of a lower social class. The religious scholars and Pharisees, who followed the Law meticulously, questioned Jesus’ actions to his disciples. Jesus, overhearing them, responded as seen in today’s verse.
The sick, whom Jesus is referring to are those who acknowledge they are sinners, and in need of a Saviour. They know they have to repent of their sin and accept Jesus, the Messiah as their Lord and Saviour.
However the religious scholars and Pharisees did not seek Jesus because they thought they were not sinners. To them, they were not in need of a Saviour. The Law was their salvation. They viewed Jesus just as another teacher who was trying to misguide the people from the Law. We can learn from this story and search our own hearts by asking ‘Am I in need of a Saviour, or is Jesus only another great teacher? (Woowon- Korean Community Group leader).
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Think of someone you know who could use a little joy in their lives and pray for presence of the Lord to rest on them. “In His presence there is fullness of Joy” Psalm 16:11.
