Luke – Jesus Cares for Those That Are Neglected
The Pharisees criticized Jesus Christ for attending a party that was organized by Matthew the chief tax collector. Everyone – including Jesus and Matthew’s colleagues was enjoying the moment, but the Pharisees showed up to express their rage against Jesus.
The Pharisees labeled Jesus as an immoral teacher who spends time with sinners. However, Jesus corrected the Pharisees and said,
“Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance” (Luke 5:31-32).
Jesus cares for all people. Christians must learn from Jesus who cares.
Inconsistent Christians could be labeled as Pharisees since Jesus’ era Pharisees were not consistent with God. “Pharisee Christians” shifts their focus from serving God to something else, and they always find an excuse to justify their action.
For example, Pharisee Christians worship their church denomination, and some worship their spiritual leaders instead of worshipping the true God of heaven. Also, some Pharisees Christians come up with hand-made rules to make God’s laws become stricter with the hope the action will make them receive better positions in heaven.
In addition, Pharisee Christians elevate their customized practices and are quick to condemn other Christian sects who do not comply with them. However, God expects the Pharisee Christians to change their beliefs and mode of operations in order to consider them “justified” in his presence.
God requires that all people – whether they claim Christianity or not – to become genuinely born-again so that they can be acceptable to his kingdom. Only those who follow bible standards and faithfully serve God will be acceptable to heaven on the last day.
Application Prayer
Dear God, please make me a true Christian who focuses on the biblical principles to appease you. Please save me from self-righteous acts that cannot lead anywhere near your kingdom! Give me the spirit of humility to focus on improving my relationship with you, and not to get busy in condemning others!
Help me to be less critical of others, but enable me with grace to focus on activities and actions that will motivate people into moving closer to you.
Let my operations result in populating your kingdom, and not to depopulate it. After my earthly race is over, please count me worthy to enter your kingdom to hear your favorable acceptance statement, “Weldon and welcome my good servant.” For in the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
