-tax collectors were hated by the Jews... they were considered the worst sinners with no conscious
-Jesus saw Levi stilling in the tax office
-Levi is indifferent and have zero interest in Jesus
-Jesus didnt call anyone from the crowd, who is passionate abt God
1. drawing of God
-by ourselves, we are blind...
-unless the Lord draws ppl to Himself, no one can know Him
-it is God's grace that draw us to follow Jesus
the drawing is like a door knock
-Levi was rich in wealth, obsessed with money.. but he didnt realize tt he is naked
even if he see ppl are so passionate, he is indifferent
-the moment Jesus called Levi, it became the turning point of his life
-unless God draws us, we cant know God.... thus we need to give God our attention!
-make time and give God space
initially, Levi was sitting... but when Jesus called, he left everything and followed Jesus
every often we hear Jesus, but we will say "Jesus, wait let me do what i want to do first", "Jesus, im not ready"
dont take our relationship with God for granted!
3 benefits of surrendering our life to Jesus
great feast is costly and Levi and afford it!
previously, money and status ruled his life
-attitude, thinking
-Levi didnt negotiate with Jesus... Levi's response is immediate, unconditional, absolute surrender
1. for our own benefit
we need to give up our own sinful lifestyle... but we will receive eternal life
Levi invited all his tax collector friends and Jesus to his house... he wants them to hear Jesus!
all Levi wanted was Jesus... how will he know that will write the gospel of Matthew
ppl are criticizing Jesus that He went and dine with sinners... but Jesus responded
3. for Jesus' sake
-nothing can compare to this benefit... gain intimacy with Jesus
-its a privilege... cos the drawing is only from God
Jesus is our greatest reward
