Matthew 9:11

When the Pharisees saw this, they asked His disciples, "Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?"

Study Bible

When the Pharisees saw this
The Pharisees were a religious group known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and the traditions of the elders. The Greek word for "Pharisees" is "Pharisaioi," which means "separated ones." Historically, they were influential in Jewish society and often positioned themselves as guardians of religious purity. Their observation of Jesus dining with those considered unclean by societal standards highlights their focus on external righteousness and ritual purity.

they asked His disciples
The Pharisees approached the disciples rather than Jesus directly, which may indicate a strategic move to sow doubt or confusion among His followers. The Greek verb "epērōtēsan" implies a questioning that is more than mere curiosity; it suggests a challenge or confrontation. This reflects the tension between Jesus' ministry and the established religious norms of the time.

Why does your Teacher
The term "Teacher" (Greek: "didaskalos") was a title of respect, acknowledging Jesus' role as a rabbi or instructor. However, the Pharisees' use of the term here may carry a tone of skepticism or irony, questioning the legitimacy of His teachings given His association with those deemed unrighteous.

eat with tax collectors and sinners?
In the cultural and historical context of first-century Judea, sharing a meal was a sign of fellowship and acceptance. Tax collectors were particularly despised as they were seen as collaborators with the Roman occupiers and often engaged in extortion. The term "sinners" (Greek: "hamartōloi") was used broadly to describe those who lived outside the Pharisaic interpretation of the law. Jesus' willingness to eat with such individuals was radical and countercultural, demonstrating His mission to reach the lost and marginalized. This act of dining with them symbolizes the inclusivity of the Gospel and the breaking down of social and religious barriers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
Central figure in the New Testament, the Son of God, who is teaching and demonstrating the Kingdom of God through His actions and words.

2. Pharisees
A religious group in Judaism known for strict adherence to the Law and traditions. They often questioned Jesus' actions and teachings.

3. Disciples
Followers of Jesus who are learning from His teachings and observing His ministry.

4. Tax Collectors
Considered sinners and outcasts in Jewish society due to their role in collecting taxes for the Roman occupiers, often seen as traitors and corrupt.

5. Sinners
A term used to describe those who were seen as living outside the moral and religious laws of the time.

Teaching Points

Jesus' Mission to the Marginalized
Jesus intentionally associates with those considered outcasts to demonstrate God's love and grace for all people, not just the religious elite.

Challenge of Legalism
The Pharisees' question reveals a legalistic mindset that values ritual purity over compassion and mercy. Believers are called to prioritize love and grace over rigid adherence to tradition.

Understanding True Righteousness
True righteousness is not about separation from sinners but engaging with them to bring healing and transformation through Christ.

The Role of Discipleship
As disciples, we are to follow Jesus' example in reaching out to those who are marginalized and sharing the message of hope and redemption.

Reflection on Personal Attitudes
This passage challenges us to examine our own attitudes towards those society deems as "sinners" and to align our hearts with Jesus' inclusive love.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' willingness to eat with tax collectors and sinners challenge our understanding of holiness and separation from the world?

2. In what ways can we, as modern-day disciples, follow Jesus' example in reaching out to those who are marginalized or considered "sinners" in our society?

3. How do the Pharisees' actions in this passage reflect a legalistic mindset, and what are some ways we can guard against similar attitudes in our own lives?

4. What other biblical examples can you find where Jesus or His followers reached out to those considered outcasts, and what can we learn from these examples?

5. How can we apply the principle of grace over legalism in our daily interactions with others, especially those who may not share our beliefs or values?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 5:30
Similar account where the Pharisees question Jesus' association with tax collectors and sinners, highlighting the consistent challenge Jesus faced from religious leaders.

Mark 2:16
Another parallel passage that emphasizes the same event, showing the importance of this teaching moment in the Synoptic Gospels.

Matthew 11:19
Jesus is accused of being a friend of tax collectors and sinners, which He uses to illustrate the misunderstanding of His mission.

1 Timothy 1:15
Paul speaks of Christ coming into the world to save sinners, aligning with Jesus' mission as demonstrated in this passage.