Housecalls -- February 23, 2009

When Jesus heard it, He said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.”
Mark 2:17NKJV

Jesus heard the scribes and Pharisees wondering how He could be socializing with sinners. Jesus wasn't just hanging out with them. He was looking for recruits for His staff! He had just called Levi (Matthew) to follow Him. Levi not only went with Jesus but had Him over for dinner. Of course, he invited His friends to see this famous preacher. The problem is that Levi's friends were like him--tax collectors and sinners.

The scribes questioned Jesus disciples. How could a godly man associate with people like them? Jesus didn't wait for His disciples to answer. He wanted to give a clear statement of His goals and objectives. He was making housecalls. The sick need a doctor. Not you righteous people. I didn't come to treat healthy people but sick ones.

The Pharisees and their disciples didn't recognize their need for Jesus' healing touch. They wouldn't go to the doctor because they would have to admit they were sick. Like the Pharisees we need to confess our need for Jesus and thank Him that He came for the sick. Then the difference we perceive between the sinners and us will diminish in the light of our own sinful needs.

Glad He Came For Me,

Pastor Jason