Luke 15:2

Luke 15:2. Murmured, among themselves. That they did not speak thus to our Lord Himself is evident.

This man. The expression does not necessarily imply contempt.

Receiveth sinners. His enemies said this in reproach, but it is important evidence of a blessed truth. He received this class of people among His followers.

And eateth with them. Comp. Matthew 9:10. Our Lord admitted them to social intercourse. This was deemed by the Pharisees a lowering of Himself, and perhaps of them, since they had admitted Him as a guest at their entertainments (chap. Luke 14:1, etc.). The murmur was occasioned by the present concourse, but it referred to the habitual conduct of our Lord.