New Testament
Matthew 9:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see Jesus dining in a house, which signifies a moment of fellowship and community.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Later, while Jesus was eating in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came and joined him and his disciples at the table.
And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Jesus dining in a house, which signifies a moment of fellowship and community. The presence of tax collectors and sinners highlights Jesus' mission to reach out to those marginalized by society. Tax collectors were often despised for their collaboration with the Roman authorities and their reputation for dishonesty. By sharing a meal with them, Jesus demonstrates that he welcomes all people, regardless of their past or social status. This act challenges the religious norms of the time, which often excluded such individuals from spiritual fellowship. Jesus' willingness to associate with those deemed 'sinners' illustrates his message of grace and redemption, emphasizing that everyone is worthy of love and acceptance. This moment serves as a powerful reminder of the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry, inviting us to reflect on our own attitudes towards those who are different from us or who may be struggling in life. Explore related inclusivity.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 9:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to reach out to those who are marginalized or judged by society. We can reflect on our own attitudes and strive to be more inclusive, showing love and compassion to everyone, regardless of their background or choices. By doing so, we embody the spirit of Jesus' teachings.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 9:10 teach about Jesus' relationships with sinners?
Matthew 9:10 illustrates Jesus' willingness to associate with those considered outcasts, like tax collectors and sinners. This act signifies his mission to reach the marginalized and demonstrates that he values relationships over societal norms. By dining with them, Jesus shows that everyone is worthy of love and acceptance, regardless of their past or social status.
Why were tax collectors viewed negatively in biblical times?
In biblical times, tax collectors were often despised because they collaborated with Roman authorities and were frequently associated with dishonesty and exploitation. They collected taxes from their own people, which led to resentment and distrust. Jesus' choice to dine with them in Matthew 9:10 challenges these negative perceptions and highlights his message of grace and inclusion.
How can we apply the message of Matthew 9:10 in our lives today?
We can apply the message of Matthew 9:10 by actively reaching out to those who are marginalized or judged by society. This means showing love and compassion to individuals regardless of their background or choices. By embodying inclusivity and acceptance, we reflect Jesus' teachings and contribute to a more compassionate community.
What does the act of sharing a meal signify in Matthew 9:10?
In Matthew 9:10, sharing a meal signifies fellowship, acceptance, and community. In biblical culture, dining together was a powerful symbol of friendship and belonging. Jesus' choice to eat with tax collectors and sinners emphasizes his mission to include those who are often excluded, reinforcing the idea that everyone deserves connection and grace.
The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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