In Luke 11 however, Jesus, instead of being invited to a "tax collectors" house, is invited to a Pharisees house to dine. And Jesus "forgets" to wash his hands to the astonishment of the Pharisee!
But the trouble doesn't end there--reclining at the Pharisees' table, Jesus begins to tell the Pharisee what he thinks about him--here are a few of His choice words:
"...you are full of greed and wickedness..."
"You fools!"
"Woe to you Pharisees! For you...neglect justice and the love of God...
you love the best seat...and to be recognized..."
At this point another guest--a lawyer (teacher of the law) speaks up--rather offended that he is being lumped in with the Pharisees...But rather than an apology Jesus continues, now directing His attention to the Lawyers!
"Woe to you lawyers also! You load people with heavy burdens and you don't lift a finger to help"
Woe to you! For you build tombs for the prophets that you killed!"
"Woe to you lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge"
"You did not enter yourselves, and you hindered those who were entering."
The question to wrestle with is what makes Jesus so gracious and accepting on one hand...and so harsh and aggressive on the other?
I'd encourage you to press past giving a pat answer.
What is at the heart of Jesus' actions in the different ways he dines/speaks with people? (And what might Jesus be revealing about the hearts of those He had dinner with?)
What does this say about how we should "dine" with others?
What does this say about how we should "dine" with others?
What is the good news of the gospel revealed when these differences are examined honestly?
What are the warnings you may need to hear and examine in yourself?
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