New Testament
Matthew 9:11
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When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?"
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And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?
What Matthew 9:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Pharisees, who were religious leaders known for their strict adherence to the law, question Jesus' disciples about why Jesus associates with tax collectors and sinners. Tax collectors were often despised by the Jewish people for collaborating with the Roman authorities and for their corrupt practices. Sinners, in this context, likely refers to those who lived in ways that were considered morally wrong or who did not follow the religious laws. The Pharisees' question reveals their concern about Jesus' actions and the company he keeps, as they believed that associating with such people would make one unclean or sinful. However, Jesus' willingness to engage with those marginalized by society highlights his mission to reach out to the lost and offer them grace and redemption. This moment sets the stage for understanding Jesus' approach to ministry, which emphasizes compassion over condemnation and the importance of reaching out to those in need of healing and forgiveness.
How to apply Matthew 9:11 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own attitudes towards those who are different or marginalized. Instead of judging others, we should strive to show compassion and understanding, following Jesus' example of reaching out to those in need of love and acceptance.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Calling Matthew (Matthew 9:9–13)
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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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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 9:11 mean?
Matthew 9:11 shows the Pharisees questioning why Jesus associates with tax collectors and sinners. This highlights their concern about religious purity and Jesus' mission to reach out to those marginalized by society.
What is the significance of tax collectors in Matthew 9:11?
In Matthew 9:11, tax collectors are viewed negatively by the Jewish community for collaborating with the Romans and being corrupt. Their inclusion in Jesus' ministry illustrates his message of grace and acceptance for all.
What does the term 'sinners' refer to in Matthew 9:11?
In Matthew 9:11, 'sinners' refers to individuals who lived in ways considered morally wrong or did not follow religious laws. Jesus' association with them emphasizes his mission to offer forgiveness and healing.
Why did the Pharisees criticize Jesus in Matthew 9:11?
The Pharisees criticized Jesus in Matthew 9:11 because they believed that eating with tax collectors and sinners made one unclean. Their question reflects their strict adherence to religious laws and their misunderstanding of Jesus' purpose.
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