Luke 5:32

32 I have not come to call the righteous to repentance, but sinners."

Luke 5:32 Meaning and Commentary

Luke 5:32

I came not to call the righteous
Such as the Scribes and Pharisees were in their own apprehension, and in the esteem of others, who trusted in themselves, that they were righteous, and submitted not to the righteousness of Christ: these Christ came not to call by his grace, and therefore did not associate himself with them: but sinners to repentance; such as the publicans, and others, with them, were; and therefore he was chiefly with such, and chose to be among them: these he not only called to repentance by the outward ministry of the word, but brought them to it; he having power to bestow the grace of repentance, as well as to call to the duty of it; (See Gill on Matthew 9:13). (See Gill on Mark 2:17).

Luke 5:32 In-Context

30 This led the Pharisees and Scribes of their party to expostulate with His disciples and ask, "Why are you eating and drinking with these tax-gatherers and notorious sinners?"

31 But Jesus replied to them, "It is not men in good health who require a physician, but the sick.

32 I have not come to call the righteous to repentance, but sinners."

33 Again they said to Him, "John's disciples fast often and pray, as do also those of the pharisees; but yours eat and drink."

34 "Can you compel the bridal party to fast," replied Jesus, "so long as they have the bridegroom among them?