Table Talk: Sharing Food, Time, and Jesus with People “Throw a Party- Tell Your Story” (Billy Russell, 06/09/19)

Table Talk: Sharing Food, Time, and Jesus with People

                            “Throw a Party- Tell Your Story”  (Luke 5:27-32)

 

Responding to the call to follow Jesus transforms our lives. Luke tells us Matthew’s story as the recently resigned tax collector, who gathers his friends for a BBQ to meet Jesus, tell his story, and then the big bon-voyage to trek on with Jesus. Ever thought about throwing a bash and introducing your friends to Jesus through your faith story?

 

What was Matthew’s “whatever” hunger (v.27)? $$$$$!!!!!

     Matthew was a hated traitor as a tax-collector working for the Romans.

     Matthew was very wealthy, more so than all the other disciples.

     Matthew was living the dream! (Perhaps near the Roman garrison

                                                        beachside @ Capernaum?)

 

Jesus’ call changes all (vv.27-28)! Jesus sees and speaks to Matthew.

     “Follow Me!” (v.27) = “Come, be my disciple.” Jesus is decisive.

     Decisive moment/move:“... got up, left everything, followed Him” (v.28).

     The old dream dies and a new vision for life emerges!

 

Go ahead- throw a party and honor Jesus (v.29)!

     For Matthew, Jesus had honored him by calling him to follow.

     So, Matthew honors Jesus by throwing a mega BBQ Party!

     There’s a story to be told about a decisive moment in time.

     Ever thought about throwing a bash and telling your story?

     Such a grand gesture can be both decisive and divisive.

 

Jesus shows us what grace at the table looks like (vv.30-32).

     Grace shared over a meal invites people into relationship.

     Expect questions and let Jesus speak. Change can be complicated!

     The religious men questioned Jesus’ associations and methodology.

            (The Pharisees don’t mind the party as much as they want to

             control the guest list. -Tim Chester)

     Jesus quickly settles the matter, using two common illustrations:

            1) a physician heals the sick; and,

            2) a host calls people to the meal (repentance- response 2 grace!).

     Jesus practices acceptance around the table and calls for repentance!

     Do you see your need for Jesus? Will you follow Him?