And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Jesus and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
(Matthew 9:10-13 ESV)
When God rebuked Saul for his disobedience he made the classic statement that obedience is better than sacrifice. When Jesus rebukes the Pharisees here it is similar in structure, but the particular point of obedience is "mercy." Sacrifice is well and good, and a pleasing aroma to God, as long as it is offered in a humble, thankful, and loving way. It is not merely a ritual or activity. It is an expression of knowing the great sacrifice paid for us, our forgiveness, and our acceptance to God. No sacrifice can compare to His. Any "sacrifice" we make is but a reflection of His.
No comments:
Post a Comment