Luke 15:2

So the Pharisees and scribes began to grumble: "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them."

Study Bible

So the Pharisees and scribes
The Pharisees and scribes were influential Jewish religious leaders during the time of Jesus. The Pharisees were known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and the oral traditions. The scribes were experts in the Law, often serving as teachers and interpreters. Their role was crucial in maintaining the religious and legal standards of Jewish society. Historically, these groups held significant power and were often seen as the gatekeepers of religious orthodoxy. Their presence in this verse sets the stage for a confrontation between the established religious order and the radical inclusivity of Jesus' ministry.

began to grumble
The Greek word used here is "διαγογγύζω" (diagogguzō), which conveys a sense of murmuring or complaining in a low tone. This grumbling reflects a deep-seated discontent and disapproval. In the context of the Gospels, such grumbling often signifies a resistance to Jesus' teachings and actions, which challenged the status quo. The Pharisees and scribes' grumbling is indicative of their inability to comprehend the grace and mercy that Jesus extended to those considered unworthy by societal standards.

This man
The phrase "This man" is used here somewhat derogatorily, emphasizing the Pharisees and scribes' disdain for Jesus. It reflects their skepticism and lack of recognition of His divine authority. In the broader narrative of the Gospels, Jesus is often referred to in ways that highlight His humanity, yet His actions and teachings reveal His divine nature. This duality is central to understanding the mystery of the Incarnation, where Jesus is both fully God and fully man.

welcomes sinners
The Greek word for "welcomes" is "προσδέχομαι" (prosdechomai), which means to receive favorably or to accept. Jesus' welcoming of sinners was revolutionary, as it broke the social and religious barriers of His time. Sinners, in this context, refer to those who were marginalized and ostracized by the religious elite due to their perceived moral and spiritual failings. Jesus' acceptance of them underscores the core message of the Gospel: that God's love and grace are available to all, regardless of their past.

and eats with them
In the ancient Near Eastern culture, sharing a meal was a sign of fellowship and acceptance. Eating with someone signified a level of intimacy and relationship. By eating with sinners, Jesus was not only breaking social norms but also demonstrating the inclusive nature of God's kingdom. This act of eating with sinners is a powerful symbol of the reconciliation and restoration that Jesus offers. It challenges believers to reflect on their own attitudes towards those whom society deems unworthy and to embody the same grace and hospitality that Jesus exemplified.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharisees
A religious group in Judaism known for strict adherence to the Law and traditions. They often clashed with Jesus over interpretations of the Law and issues of purity and righteousness.

2. Scribes
Experts in the Jewish Law, often associated with the Pharisees. They were responsible for teaching and interpreting the Scriptures.

3. Jesus
Central figure in the New Testament, the Son of God, who came to seek and save the lost. His actions and teachings often challenged the religious norms of His time.

4. Sinners
In the context of this passage, "sinners" refers to those considered morally or ritually impure by the religious leaders, often including tax collectors and others marginalized by society.

5. Meal Fellowship
In Jewish culture, sharing a meal was a sign of acceptance and fellowship. Jesus' willingness to eat with sinners was a radical act that signified His mission to reach the lost.

Teaching Points

Jesus' Radical Acceptance
Jesus' willingness to associate with sinners challenges us to examine our own attitudes towards those society deems unworthy. Are we willing to extend grace and fellowship to all, regardless of their past or status?

The Heart of the Gospel
The Gospel is for everyone, especially those who recognize their need for a Savior. Jesus' actions remind us that no one is beyond the reach of God's love and redemption.

Challenge to Religious Legalism
The grumbling of the Pharisees and scribes serves as a warning against legalism and self-righteousness. We must guard against attitudes that prioritize rules over relationships and compassion.

Community and Fellowship
Sharing a meal with others can be a powerful act of community and acceptance. Consider how you can use hospitality as a means to share the love of Christ with others.

Mission of Reconciliation
Jesus' example calls us to be agents of reconciliation, reaching out to those who are lost and inviting them into a relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' interaction with sinners in Luke 15:2 challenge your understanding of who is welcome in the Kingdom of God?

2. In what ways can you practice radical acceptance and hospitality in your own life, following Jesus' example?

3. Reflect on a time when you may have been like the Pharisees, grumbling about those whom Jesus welcomes. How can you change your perspective to align more with Jesus' heart?

4. How do the additional scriptures (Matthew 9:10-13, Mark 2:15-17, Romans 5:8, 1 Timothy 1:15) deepen your understanding of Jesus' mission and the inclusivity of the Gospel?

5. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your church community is a place where all people feel welcomed and valued, regardless of their past?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 9:10-13
Jesus explains His mission to call sinners, not the righteous, highlighting His role as a physician for the spiritually sick.

Mark 2:15-17
Similar account where Jesus dines with tax collectors and sinners, emphasizing His purpose to reach those in need of repentance.

Romans 5:8
Demonstrates God's love for us in that Christ died for sinners, underscoring the inclusivity of Jesus' ministry.

1 Timothy 1:15
Paul acknowledges himself as the foremost sinner, yet saved by Christ, illustrating the transformative power of Jesus' acceptance.