In Matthew 9:13, Jesus declares, "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners." This statement is a profound expression of Jesus' mission and ministry. As we explore this biblical truth, we will gain a deeper understanding of Jesus' purpose and the nature of salvation.
The Self-Righteous and the Humble Sinner
In the biblical context, the "righteous" referred to those who considered themselves morally upright and spiritually superior. They were the Pharisees, scribes, and other religious leaders who believed they had earned God's favor through their good works and strict adherence to the law.
On the other hand, "sinners" referred to those who were aware of their spiritual poverty and acknowledged their need for forgiveness and salvation. They were the tax collectors, prostitutes, and other outcasts who were shunned by society and considered unclean by the religious elite.
Jesus' Ministry to Sinners
Jesus' statement in Matthew 9:13 is a clear indication that His ministry was focused on calling sinners to repentance. He spent most of His time with those who were considered outcasts and sinners, sharing meals with them, teaching them, and offering them forgiveness and salvation.
In Luke 15:1-2, we read, "Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, 'This man receives sinners and eats with them.'" Jesus' willingness to associate with sinners was a scandal to the self-righteous, but it was a demonstration of God's love and mercy to those who were humble and repentant.
The Call to Repentance
Jesus' mission was not to call the self-righteous to continue in their pride and arrogance. Rather, it was to call sinners to repentance, to turn away from their sin and toward God. In Luke 5:32, Jesus says, "I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance."
Repentance is not just a feeling of sorrow or regret; it is a fundamental change of heart and mind, a turning away from sin and toward God. It is a recognition of our spiritual poverty and our need for forgiveness and salvation.
Jesus' statement in Matthew 9:13 is a powerful reminder that salvation is not for the self-righteous, but for humble sinners who acknowledge their need for forgiveness and salvation. As we reflect on Jesus' mission and ministry, may we be reminded of our own need for repentance and salvation, and may we humbly come to Jesus, acknowledging our sin and receiving His forgiveness and mercy.
