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These words were originally spoken as a reproach against our Lord. When we repeat them it is with widely different feelings. They are to us a message of joy — nay, the only true grounds of joy and hope to man.

I. THE PERSONS REFERRED TO. "This man": "sinners."

1. The contrast in its most general aspect. They — "sinners" — evildoers, violators of God's law. He — "holy; separate from sinners."

2. Take the outward life of both. His — faultless, beneficent. Theirs — the reverse.

3. Consider the spirit of His life, and of theirs. Perfect love and confidence in God; perfect love and devotion to the good of man. They, governed by selfishness; destitute of faith; living under influence of impulse, passion, etc.

II. THE RELATION EXPRESSED BETWEEN THESE TWO CLASSES OF PERSONS.

1. What should you expect? A man is known by his companions. Like seeks like.

2. Yet, He receiveth sinners.

(1)  To mercy and pardon.

(2)  To grace and guidance.

(3)  To love and friendship.

3. And all this He does

(1)  freely;

(2)  readily;

(3)  eternally.

III. WHAT IS OUR INTEREST IN THIS SUBJECT?

1. To some, none. But why, and how? Are they not sinners? How, then, can they be saved? Is there another who can thus receive?

2. Do you fear to come? Why? Consider His words of invitation and promise. Consider His acts of welcome and beneficence.

3. Are we received? See that you never abandon His protection.

(W. R. Clark, M. A.)

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KJV: Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him.

WEB: Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming close to him to hear him.