THIS MAN RECEIVETH SINNERS

 

EVENING DEVOTION by James Smith

JULY 27

 

And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying,

This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. –

Luke 15:2

 
This was a charge brought against our Lord, but it is full of consolation to us.
 
He did receive sinners, and he received them as sinners.
 
He does receive sinners still, and receives them notwithstanding their sins; yea, because of them.
 
He receives the very worst of sinners; however worthless, despised by others, or peculiar their circumstances may be.
 
Sinners of every crime at any age, without making a distinction.
 
Every sinner that comes to him, is received by him.
 
He receives them with all their sins upon them, however polluted, or however base.
 
He receives them without anything to recommend them.
 
Without any reluctance,
 
Most graciously.
 
He receives them to pardon all their sins.
 
To cleanse them from all their defilement.
 
To justify them from all charges.
 
To heal all their wounds.
 
To make them new creatures.
 
To use them to his glory.
 
To make them a peculiar people, zealous of good works on earth; and to glorify them with himself in heaven for ever.
 
Beloved, if you feel that you cannot go to God as a saint, go to Jesus as a sinner.
 
Are you doubting the character of your past experience?
 
Go to him, for he will receive you.
 
Go to him now.
 

His blood can cleanse the blackest soul,

And wash your guilt away,

He will present you sound and whole

On that tremendous day.

 
James Smith