The Scandal of Jesus

As Jesus continues in ministry he faces greater and greater oppression. the resistance comes to a head in his perceived welcoming spirit to the outcasts of society. Selecting Levi, the tax-collector, and attending a party with Levi's friends was seen as poor judgment (and being a bad example to others!) What the Pharisees don't understand is the adventurous spirit of Jesus and the elasticity of his thinking. Jesus understands the implications of the new kingdom of God and how it transcends the old censorial system which the Pharisees cling to. The new system is one of grace and mercy to all - even the ones who are seen as inferior and outside of God's blessing.