Meeting Jesus - Calling Matthew
Acceptance does not equal approval.
What’s one idea from the message that stood out to you? Why do you think it grabbed you?
What are some of the ways you interact with and affect people?
Tax collectors were hated for collaborating with the occupying nation and stealing from the people to become rich. Can you think of what a similarly hated occupation might be today?
Why do we often equate acceptance with approval?
Read: Matthew 9:9-13.
To accept others the way Jesus does, we need to leave our place of comfort. What keeps you from doing so?
Frank presents three primary reasons that Christians are sometimes hesitant to interact with non-Christians (They confuse acceptance with approval, they’re afraid the sin will “rub off,” or they’re apathetic about Hell). Do you see yourself in one of these categories? How so? Or, if you don’t, what keeps you from interacting with non-Christians?
Why does Jesus desire mercy, not sacrifice?
How can you be accepting to those whose actions or life choices are ones you don’t approve of? What does it look like?
Prayer: Pray that you are accepting and loving to those around you.