Jesus The Friend Of Sinners Series

JESUS THE FRIEND OF SINNERS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 7:34

Key Verse:

“The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners.” – Luke 7:34

Supporting Texts: Matthew 9:10-13; Mark 2:15-17; John 3:17; Romans 5:8

INTRODUCTION:

Jesus’ ministry was marked by radical love and compassion for those rejected by society. He reached out to tax collectors, prostitutes, and sinners, illustrating God’s heart for the lost. The title “Friend of Sinners” emphasizes that no one is beyond His reach, and His love does not discriminate.

Many people today feel condemned, rejected, or unworthy. They assume God cannot or will not accept them due to their failures. Yet, Jesus challenges that mindset by deliberately associating with the marginalized, demonstrating that His purpose is restoration, not condemnation.

Understanding Jesus as the Friend of Sinners encourages believers to extend compassion and mercy in the same manner. It also assures the lost that God’s grace is available to all who genuinely seek Him, offering forgiveness, renewal, and hope for a transformed life.

1. JESUS SEEKS THE LOST WITH COMPASSION

Jesus actively sought out those who were spiritually lost, showing that divine love initiates restoration.

a) Reaching out to sinners (Luke 5:32). Christ came to call sinners to repentance, demonstrating that His love goes beyond social rejection.

b) Offering forgiveness (Matthew 9:2-7). Jesus forgave sins as a sign of divine compassion and reconciliation with God.

c) Demonstrating acceptance (Mark 2:15). By dining with sinners, He showed that social labels do not limit His love.

d) Encouraging transformation (John 8:11). He offers a chance to start anew, turning lives from sin to righteousness.

Biblical Example:

The story of Zacchaeus, the tax collector (Luke 19:1-10), highlights Jesus’ willingness to engage with the despised, resulting in salvation and transformation.

2. JESUS TEACHES LOVE AND MERCY OVER CONDEMNATION

The Friend of Sinners exemplifies that mercy outweighs judgment.

a) God’s desire for repentance, not punishment (Ezekiel 33:11). God desires that sinners return to Him rather than face condemnation.

b) Compassion over criticism (Matthew 12:7). Jesus prioritizes mercy and understanding over strict adherence to human judgement.

c) Love for the marginalized (Luke 15:1-2). He consistently interacted with society’s outcasts, highlighting their value.

d) Transforming grace (Romans 5:8). God demonstrates His love through Christ, offering grace even while humanity was still in sin.

Biblical Example:

The woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11) illustrates Jesus’ mercy, turning a moment of shame into an opportunity for transformation.

3. JESUS’ FRIENDSHIP RESTORES DIGNITY AND HOPE

Through His compassion, Jesus restores the dignity of the lost, offering them a future filled with hope.

a) Restoring identity in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Believers are made new, leaving behind shame and guilt.

b) Renewing purpose and destiny (Jeremiah 29:11). Jesus’ friendship reassures sinners of God’s plans for a hopeful future.

c) Healing emotional wounds (Psalm 147:3). His love heals broken hearts and restores inner peace.

d) Strengthening faith through acceptance (Romans 15:7). Those embraced by Christ’s love are encouraged to walk boldly in faith.

Biblical Example:

The parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) demonstrates Jesus’ readiness to restore and celebrate those who return to Him.

4. JESUS EMPOWERS BELIEVERS TO REACH THE LOST

Jesus calls His followers to emulate His compassion, extending grace and mercy to others.

a) Witnessing with love (Matthew 28:19-20). Believers are commissioned to spread the gospel, reflecting Christ’s approach to sinners.

b) Practicing mercy in daily life (Luke 6:36). Followers are called to mirror God’s mercy in interactions with the broken and marginalized.

c) Restoring hope through service (Galatians 6:2). By serving the oppressed, believers participate in God’s mission of deliverance.

d) Transforming society through compassion (Acts 4:32-35). Communities experience renewal when believers act in love and unity.

Biblical Example:

Peter and John healed the lame man at the temple gate (Acts 3:1-10), demonstrating love and practical action for the benefit of the marginalized.

CONCLUSION:

Jesus, the Friend of Sinners, models divine compassion and radical grace. His ministry reminds believers that God’s love reaches every corner of human failure, restoring dignity, hope, and purpose.

As followers of Christ, we must embrace this example, extending love to the lost, the marginalized, and those burdened by sin. By doing so, we glorify God, expand His Kingdom, and become instruments of transformation in society.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me to embrace Your compassion for the lost in my community.

2. Father, teach me to love and forgive even those society rejects.

3. Lord, grant me the courage to reach out to sinners with boldness and grace.

4. Father, restore hope and dignity to those around me who are brokenhearted.

5. Lord, empower me to act as a vessel of Your mercy and love.

6. Father, give me the wisdom to guide sinners toward repentance and salvation.