New Testament
Luke 15:2
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The Pharisees and the teachers of the law complained, saying, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them."
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And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.
What Luke 15:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Pharisees and teachers of the law express their discontent with Jesus for associating with sinners. They see His actions as inappropriate for a religious leader. Eating with someone in that culture was a sign of acceptance and fellowship, which the Pharisees believed should be reserved for the righteous. This complaint highlights their rigid adherence to the law and their lack of understanding of God's grace. Jesus' willingness to engage with those considered outcasts demonstrates His mission to seek and save the lost, showing that His love extends to everyone, regardless of their past. This moment sets the stage for the parables that follow in Luke 15, where Jesus illustrates the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents. The Pharisees' criticism reveals their misunderstanding of God's heart for humanity and the transformative power of grace.
How to apply Luke 15:2 to your life
We should reflect on our attitudes towards those we consider 'sinners' or outsiders. Instead of judging, we can follow Jesus' example by showing love and acceptance. Engaging with those different from us can lead to meaningful relationships and opportunities to share grace.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Luke 15:2
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 15:2 mean?
Luke 15:2 shows the Pharisees and teachers of the law criticizing Jesus for associating with sinners. They believed that a religious leader should not engage with those they considered unworthy, highlighting their rigid views on righteousness.
What is the significance of eating with sinners in Luke 15:2?
In the cultural context of Luke 15:2, eating with someone was a sign of acceptance and fellowship. Jesus' choice to eat with sinners illustrates His mission to reach out to those marginalized by society.
Why did the Pharisees complain about Jesus in Luke 15:2?
The Pharisees complained because they saw Jesus' actions as inappropriate for a religious figure. They believed that associating with sinners undermined their strict adherence to the law.
What does this verse reveal about Jesus' mission?
This verse reveals that Jesus' mission includes reaching out to those considered outcasts. His willingness to engage with sinners demonstrates His message of grace and acceptance for all.
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