Luke 15:1 Cross References

Luke 15:1

1: Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach.

This is a true saying, and everyone should believe it: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners--and I was the worst of them all.

Soon Levi held a banquet in his home with Jesus as the guest of honor. Many of Levi's fellow tax collectors and other guests were there.
But the Pharisees and their teachers of religious law complained bitterly to Jesus' disciples, "Why do you eat and drink with such scum?"
Jesus answered them, "Healthy people don't need a doctor--sick people do.
I have come to call sinners to turn from their sins, not to spend my time with those who think they are already good enough."

That night Matthew invited Jesus and his disciples to be his dinner guests, along with his fellow tax collectors and many other notorious sinners.
The Pharisees were indignant. "Why does your teacher eat with such scum?" they asked his disciples.
When he heard this, Jesus replied, "Healthy people don't need a doctor--sick people do."
Then he added, "Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: 'I want you to be merciful; I don't want your sacrifices.' For I have come to call sinners, not those who think they are already good enough."

And if wicked people turn away from their wickedness, obey the law, and do what is just and right, they will save their lives.

"But what do you think about this? A man with two sons told the older boy, 'Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.'
The son answered, 'No, I won't go,' but later he changed his mind and went anyway.
Then the father told the other son, 'You go,' and he said, 'Yes, sir, I will.' But he didn't go.
Which of the two was obeying his father?" They replied, "The first, of course." Then Jesus explained his meaning: "I assure you, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do.

God's law was given so that all people could see how sinful they were. But as people sinned more and more, God's wonderful kindness became more abundant.

When they heard this, all the people, including the unjust tax collectors, agreed that God's plan was right, for they had been baptized by John.

And note this: Some who are despised now will be greatly honored then; and some who are greatly honored now will be despised then. "

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