Who are the modern tax collectors whom Jesus would seek out?
“Later Jesus and his disciples were at home having supper with a collection of disreputable guests. Unlikely as it seems, more than a few of them had become followers. The religion scholars and Pharisees saw him keeping this kind of company and lit into his disciples: ‘What kind of example is this, acting cozy with the riffraff?’ Jesus, overhearing, shot back, ‘Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick? I’m here inviting the sin-sick, not the spiritually-fit.’”
Mark 2:15-17 (MSG)
In other translations of this passage from the Gospel of Mark, the “disreputable” and “riffraff” are identified as tax collectors. This is important to note because tax collectors in Jerusalem were greatly disliked. They were Jewish individuals who collected state taxes on the behalf of Roman occupiers. Essentially, they were viewed as traitors to their kind.
And yet, Jesus spoke with them, ate with them and traveled with them. Why?
Well, as He said, He was there for those who needed him, not those who were well. So, if we are to follow in His example, who do we sit with or invite into our circles?
Who are the tax collectors today?
Ask yourself, who are the most hated or unwanted people in our society? These are the ones you need to pursue with love and faithfulness in your heart. Don’t get us wrong — no one is asking you to put yourself in harm’s way with a violent individual, but you should be reaching out to marginalized groups to build a connection and share your love, such as the LGBTQ community, ethnic minorities, immigrants or people of other faiths.
Jesus has a heart for these people as much as those who call on His name. So it’s about time His followers stopped demonizing anyone different as an enemy and started living in His example instead.
Sit with the tax collectors. Build bridges with the unwanted. Make a difference in the world.
Centerpoint Church is ready to walk with you on your faith journey
At Centerpoint, our community believes in purpose and passion, and we would love to walk with you on your journey in finding yours. We are currently going through a new sermon series titled “To Hell With Normal.” It’s all about redefining what we consider normal in life as we seek to make our lives more like the way Jesus would have them to be.
Do you want to grow in your faith or are simply curious about who this Jesus guy is? You’re not alone. We encourage you to listen to our series online and welcome you to come to one of our Sunday morning services in Valrico, Florida.