Luke 5:27-32: A Gospel party

This short passage contains what  must be one of the most ironic statements in the New Testament (31,32). The Pharisees and Scribes were sick – dangerously so – but just didn’t recognise it. How blinded to reality we can be (6:39). They were in reach of a cure for their terminal condition but just didn’t realise it.

What a lovely thing Levi (Matthew) did, getting his buddies over for a meal to meet with Jesus who had radically changed his life. One church encouraged their people to throw ‘Matthew parties’ where believers and unbelievers get to rub shoulders. You never know what the Lord will do with such a gathering. But religious people don’t like the idea. They will find reasons to take aim and fire. But if Jesus loves to hang out with non- disciples why should His followers be reticent? Admittedly, it stretches you. These occasions are not always easy. But it is great to take some risks for the gospel.