Two Meals With Tax Collectors
Pastor Tan Thai · Jun 4, 2023
This sermon explores Jesus's message when He ate with tax collectors and sinners, challenging the Pharisees' judgment. The sermon emphasizes that we should not judge others based on appearance or reputation, but examine our own hearts instead. The message calls believers to live in a way that does not cause others to stumble, especially those still separated from God.
The sermon begins by presenting two important events of Jesus eating with tax collectors. The Pharisees and teachers of the law grumbled, criticizing the disciples for why they ate with those considered sinners and unclean. The image of Jesus standing outside the door knocking (Revelation 3:20) is used as an introduction, laying the foundation for the idea that He seeks personal relationships with everyone, regardless of who they are.
The second section develops a theological argument about unfair judgment. The sermon cites Mark 7:20-23 and Galatians 5:19-21 to show that true defilement comes from within the human heart, not from outside or from social relationships. The Pharisees are criticized for considering themselves righteous while having "a plank in their eye" (Matthew 7:3-5). The sermon emphasizes that laws and social rules can never replace regeneration and sanctification by the Holy Spirit.
The third section applies the message to the practical lives of today's congregation. Believers are called not to judge those still separated from God, but instead to live in a way that does not cause others to stumble or be offended (1 Corinthians 10:31-32). The sermon reminds that the wisdom of God will be vindicated by His children (Luke 7:34-35), that is, by the lives and influence of those who believe in Him. The congregation is encouraged to listen and seek out the abandoned, just as Jesus did.