Luke 15:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 15:2
2 And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.
Chapter Context
Luke 15 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of discipleship, judgment, righteousness. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-32: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 15:2
2 And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.
Analysis
The Pharisees complain: 'This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them' (ὅτι Οὗτος ἁμαρτωλοὺς προσδέχεται καὶ συνεσθίει αὐτοῖς). The verb 'prosdechomai' (προσδέχεται, receiveth) means to welcome or accept, while 'synesthiō' (συνεσθίει, eateth with) indicates table fellowship—the most intimate social interaction. In Jewish culture, sharing meals implied acceptance, approval, even covenant relationship. The Pharisees' criticism reflects their theology: association with sinners brings defilement. Jesus' practice demonstrates gospel truth: He enters sinners' brokenness to bring transformation, not contamination. His holiness heals rather than being compromised by contact with sin.
Historical Context
Pharisaic purity regulations extended biblical laws into elaborate oral traditions. They maintained separation from the am ha-aretz (people of the land) who did not observe these traditions strictly. Table fellowship was especially sensitive—sharing food with the unclean made one unclean. Jesus' behavior threatened this entire system, suggesting that God's grace operates differently than their merit-based righteousness. The three parables that follow (lost sheep, lost coin, lost son) defend Jesus' practice by revealing God's heart—He actively seeks and joyfully receives repentant sinners.
Reflection
- How does Jesus' table fellowship with sinners model the gospel principle that Christ enters our mess to save us?
- What contemporary forms of Pharisaic separation might prevent Christians from effectively reaching lost people?
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Luke 5:30, 7:39, Matthew 9:11
- Sin: Luke 7:34, 19:7
- Parallel theme: Acts 11:3, Galatians 2:12