Influencing People Takes Time

Note from today’s Bible reading: Matthew 8-9

One of the men Jesus called to be one of His disciple was Matthew, a tax collector (Matthew 9:9). Immediately afterward, Jesus and His disciples visited and ate with “many tax collectors and sinners” (Matthew 9:10).

The tax collectors were generally looked down upon – hence the reason why they were mentioned with those who were simply identified as “sinners.” The Pharisees, who were recognized as the religious elites of the day, questioned Jesus’ disciples about this: “Why is your Teacher eating with the tax collectors and sinners?” (Matthew 9:11). In their minds, there was no good reason for any self-respecting God-fearing person to associate with such people.

Rather than allowing His disciples to respond, Jesus answered their question: “It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick… I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners” (Matthew 9:12-13). Jesus’ association with these people was not meant to show approval for any sinful behavior; instead, it was to help them overcome their sin and turn to God.

Most Christians recognize the importance of leading people to the truth, teaching them the gospel, and introducing them to Jesus. However, Jesus’ example shows us that this will often take an investment of time and a willingness to associate with those who need the gospel. We must show a genuine interest in them personally so they will be more open to discussions about spiritual things with us.

So remember that influencing people takes time. If we are not willing to invest time in them, they often will not listen. Generally, we will have more success when others know we care for them first.