Jesus called Levi (Matthew) to follow Him.  And he did, he left his work and followed Jesus.  (Levi was a Jew who was hated because he collected taxes for Rome.)  Because of his belief in Jesus, he wanted others he knew to know Jesus too.  So he had a party, a banquet…with tax collectors and others who were looked down upon by the religious leaders.  As they were having the party, some Pharisees and teachers of the law complained to Jesus’ disciples (notice that they did not go to Jesus).  What was their complaint…why does Jesus eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?

  And this is most interesting…Jesus answered their question!

(NASB) Luke 5:31-32 “And Jesus answered and said to them, ‘It is not those who are well who need a physician, but those who are sick.
32 ‘I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.’”

  What is the need for each of us?  What is the need for people who always make themselves out to be ‘right’, at least in their own eyes?  Don’t we need to recognize that we are in need of being made whole and healthy?  Jesus came to give all who turn to Him by faith: wholeness, a healthy attitude and life.

  Today many people are making themselves out to be ‘right’ in what they say and do…justifying their ideas, words and actions in their own eyes.

  When anyone makes themselves out to be ‘right’– they will be unable to see their true need…that they are spiritually unhealthy and they need a physician.  Jesus has come for anyone who recognizes that they are sinners, spiritually unhealthy.  He came to give forgiveness (wholeness and health). 

  Remember in the above verses 31 & 32, Jesus did not come to call anyone who is righteous to repent of their sins…He did come to call those who recognize their need of a Savior from their sins.

 

Which category are you in today?

Do you need to turn to Jesus and admit your need?