10-11 Later when Jesus was eating supper at Matthew’s house with his close followers, a lot of disreputable characters came and joined them. When the Pharisees saw him keeping this kind of company, they had a fit, and lit into Jesus’ followers. “What kind of example is this from your Teacher, acting cozy with crooks and misfits?”

12-13 Jesus, overhearing, shot back, “Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick? Go figure out what this Scripture means: ‘I’m after mercy, not religion.’ I’m here to invite outsiders, not coddle insiders.”

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

My First Message: A Devotional Bible for Kids
My First Message: A Devotional Bible for Kids
Retail: $24.99
Our Price: $16.07
Save: $8.92 (36%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message Student Devotional Bible: Psalms
The Message Student Devotional Bible: Psalms
Retail: $9.99
Our Price: $8.49
Save: $1.50 (15%)
The Message Large-Print Deluxe Gift Bible--soft leather-look, navy
The Message Large-Print Deluxe Gift Bible--soft leather-look, navy
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $16.07
Save: $13.92 (46%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
Message Slimline Bible--soft leather-look, brown
Message Slimline Bible--soft leather-look, brown
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $30.09
Save: $9.90 (25%)
3.5 of 5.0 stars