Re:Verse passage – Mark 2:13-17 (day four)
The books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are known as the synoptic gospels. Synoptic means they each have many of the same parables and stories in them. John is not a synoptic gospel because it comes from a different perspective…it has no parables.
If we read the account of Matthew’s call as a disciple and the dinner with sinners in the other synoptics, we find that they follow the Sermon on the Mount…3 chapters of authoritative teaching that shook people’s perspective. The response of Matthew and this room full of sinners was a direct result of the radical teaching of Jesus.
Had the scribes heard Jesus teach? Probably so. Had they rejected His teaching and held to their traditions? Absolutely! Same words…different ears and different hearts. How have you heard the words of Jesus? Have you allowed them to penetrate your heart with truth? Or…has a barrier in your heart caused you to judge others by your unbelief? Ask God to check your heart!
Great points Larry. I gave my heart to the Lord when I was 13. We need to remember how we felt at that moment. Thank you!