Scandalous

Posted by brandonwilson on July 9, 2010

Last night Rhythm was blessed to have the talented Sam Spangler to deliver a message he appropriately entitled “Scandalous”, based on the book of Matthew’s telling of his own calling to discipleship (chapter 9, verses 9-13). Sam noted that Matthew is the only disciple to have his story told in three of the gospels (Matt, Mark & Luke)… which means it must be pretty significant.

Jesus did a few things here that the Pharisees would have considered absolutely unacceptable – and we often miss the importance of. First off, in verse 9, Jesus sees Matthew, a tax-collector (certainly no one anyone wanted to be associated with in those days). How often do we simply overlook those around us who we deem unworthy of our time? How often do we miss opportunities to share God’s love because we fail to take the time to look? Jesus recognized an opportunity for ministry. Secondly, Jesus spoke to Matthew. He acted. Acknowledging an opportunity isn’t enough. If we’re following in Jesus’ footsteps, we have to act.

In verse 10, Matthew invites Jesus and his disciples to a feast… along with many notorious “disreputable sinners” (NLT). And Jesus went. He wasn’t intimidated; He didn’t care what everyone else would think or say. More importantly, He wasn’t intimidating; Matthew and the other people at the feast were eager to talk to Him and learn from Him. (Can you imagine a Pharisee sitting in Jesus’ place at that party? Doubt that would have went over well!)

Jesus caused people to question his motives. Why? He wasn’t focusing on people who thought they could handle life themselves. He was interested in helping those who needed help (and those who didn’t think they had the right to be helped). These people still exist today – we are these people – broken, lonely, empty people in desperate need of a loving God. Are we, the church, like the Pharisees, treating people as if they aren’t worth our time and effort… or are we like Jesus, seeking and talking to and spending time with anyone and everyone to show God’s love (letting Him speak through our actions)? Sometimes being effective requires breaking the rules of tradition and expectations. After all, we can’t be scandalous like Jesus if we just sit back and let things happen – our motivation has to be love; love for Jesus & love for each other.

Love,

PJ

P.S. – Special thanks to Stephanie Painter who led us in worship!