The Friend Of Sinners
Good morning, Immanuel. The Son of God came down and sought us out.
“Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, ‘This man receives sinners and eats with them’” (Luke 15:1-2).
The glory of Jesus is that he receives sinners! Is there any other kind of person he could receive? For this very reason, the Son of God came down to us and sought us out! He came to receive sinners and to welcome us into life and fellowship with Him through his blood. That’s amazing! He doesn’t keep us at arm’s length, but he welcomes us! In a sermon on this text, the African-American Presbyterian minister and civil rights leader Francis Grimké (1850-1937) commented:
“What is it that Jesus is guilty of that so lowered him in their estimation? It was that he received sinners…What is it to receive sinners? The word receive means to admit, to welcome. And here it means that sinners of every description, however bad they be, however deeply dyed in iniquity, had ready access to Jesus; they could come to him at any time; the way was always open to them; he invited them to come; he was glad to have them come; he gave them always a warm welcome. The way of access to him was open to everybody, good, bad, and indifferent: he drew the line on nobody. Yea, more, Jesus not only gladly received sinners who came in search of him, but he didn't wait always for them to seek him; he went out and buttonholed them on the streets or wherever he could find them” (Francis Grimke, The Works of Francis J. Grimke, 264)
Our sins and failings don’t hinder his love for us; they draw his love out. He welcomes us and seeks us out. This is the real Jesus for us today.
DID WE MENTION CAROLFEST? FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8TH!
This Friday at Immanuel is our annual Carolfest celebration! Doors open, and festivities begin at 5:30 pm. There are still a few ways to jump in and serve. We could use a few hands to manage parking so everyone can enjoy this time. If you are willing and able, reach out at serveteam@immanuelnashville.com
Hallelujah, thank you Lord, thank you Tony!