Reading between the lines, I think Jesus’ association with the “sinful” crowd must have drawn criticism because he participated in their festivities; after all, you don’t make many friends at a party as a wallflower (and you don’t provide extra wine at a wedding only to not drink).
Then Levi gave a great banquet for him in his house; and there was a large crowd of tax-collectors and others sitting at the table with them. The Pharisees and their scribes were complaining to his disciples, saying, ‘Why do you eat and drink with tax-collectors and sinners?’ Jesus answered, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have come to call not the righteous but sinners to repentance.’
(Luke 5:29-32)
I think if Jesus lived today he would attend keg parties and hit the night clubs–the modern equivalent of “tax collectors and sinners”. It’s rather interesting that many religious conservatives warn against the very associations that Jesus kept as part of his ministry.
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March 29, 2008 at 11:50 am
netprophet
Good point! Sadly, at times, when people reference the Bible to support their thoughts, or issues, or Heaven forbid a new doctrine, the references are taken out of context. Some of those who hear the message never bother to read the Biblical passages for themselves there-by not allowing the Holy Spirit to guide them in making a good choice to accept or deny the truth of it. That’s one way the Jim Jones of this world are able to succeed. It still amazes me how a person who claims to be searching for a personal relationship with the living Christ, very seldom takes the time to read the Word or study Christ’s teachings.
April 21, 2008 at 1:08 pm
Paul
Jacob, I think you are as usual spot on with your observation. Jesus appears to me to have been someone who embraced life — which makes his death all the more moving.