What does Matthew 9:11 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 9:11 reports an observation made by the Pharisees upon seeing Jesus eating with "publicans and sinners" and their subsequent question to the disciples.

Publicans were tax collectors, who were often despised by the Jewish community for their association with the Roman occupiers and their frequent involvement in unethical practices, such as extortion.

Eating with such individuals, as well as those labeled sinners , people considered to be violating Jewish law or morality , was seen as a defilement, making a devout Jew ritually unclean and likely to be scorned by more religiously strict groups like the Pharisees.

This verse highlights the inclusive aspect of Jesus' ministry, suggesting that his message and invitation to repentance and the Kingdom of Heaven were open to all, regardless of their social status or adherence to the Law.

Historical Context

The verse is set in a time when Jewish society was under Roman occupation and deeply divided between various religious sects, each with its own interpretations of the Law of Moses.

The Pharisees were a Jewish sect known for their strict adherence to the Law and their added oral traditions.

During this period, the social fabric of Jewish society was such that those perceived as sinners or collaborators with the Roman government were marginalized.

Tax collectors like Matthew (Levi), whom Jesus called to be his disciple, were particularly loathed because they were seen as traitors to their own people.

Theological Insights

From a theological point of view, this verse demonstrates the grace-oriented aspect of Jesus' teachings, foreshadowing the inclusivity that would define the early Christian church.

The Pharisees represented a works-based righteousness, while Jesus introduced the concept that all are in need of God's mercy and salvation is not reserved for the self-perceived righteous.

Christian theology sees this as illustrating the universal need for a savior and Jesus' role in reaching out to disenfranchised individuals within the society of that time.

Practical Applications

This verse serves as a reminder of the Christian call to social inclusion and the danger of self-righteous judgment.

In daily life, this could translate to an encouragement for believers to reach out to those who are marginalized, or seen as "social outcasts," and to practice hospitality and openness without discrimination.

It also suggests that people should be cautious about who they label as "sinners" and instead reflect on their own need for forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

Cross-References

• Luke 5:30 - But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?
• Luke 15:1-2 - Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him.

And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.

• Mark 2:16 - And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with publicans and sinners, they said unto his disciples, How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners?

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word "publicans" is translated from the word "τελώνης" (telōnēs), which refers specifically to tax collectors - often viewed negatively in first-century Judea.

The word "sinners" comes from the Greek "ἁμαρτωλός" (hamartōlos), which refers to someone who is deviating from the accepted religious or moral norm - a term with broad application to anyone seen as morally corrupt or ritually impure.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient societies, there were similar divisions as those found within Jewish culture.

Sinners and those who violated societal norms were often ostracized or subjected to punitive measures.

In this context, Jesus' willingness to dine with "publicans and sinners" highlights a radical departure from typical social norms of both Jewish and surrounding cultures.

Such open association with the marginalized would have been contrary to many ancient religious practices that required purification rituals and exclusion of the impure or unrighteous.

Scientific Perspectives

There is no direct scientific perspective on this verse, as it deals with social and theological concepts.

However, the study of anthropology and sociology might offer insights into the impact of such inclusive behavior on group dynamics and societal structures.

The act of sharing a meal is a universally significant social activity, and Jesus’ choice to eat with marginalized individuals could be seen as a deliberate attempt to break down social barriers and promote inclusiveness.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have commented on this verse, highlighting its importance in understanding Jesus' ministry.

Many note the contrast between the Pharisees' focus on purity laws and Jesus' focus on inner transformation.

Commentators like William Barclay have observed that Jesus' willingness to mix with those whom society rejected is a powerful example of his revolutionary approach to love and acceptance.

Others, such as John Calvin, have underscored the notion that the self-righteousness of the Pharisees blinded them to their own need for grace , a theme that is recurrent in the synoptic gospels.