Luke5v34to39 JESUS DEFENDS HIS DISCIPLES FROM CRITICISMJesus never cared much about his reputation. He certainly scandalised the stuffy religious establishment by attending the great party Matthew organised to introduce Jesus to his fellow tax collectors. Jesus was unusual as a rabbi for having a good time with his disciples. He enjoyed meeting their friends at a meal and was happy to teach at table when people were relaxed and receptive. This did not suit the Pharisees who reminded Jesus that their and, indeed, John the Baptist's students took religion seriously and spent much time in prayer and fasting. Jesus approach in their view bordered on the frivolous. Jesus replies to the Pharisees criticism's with a brilliant series of observations. I am going to examine these under four heads: |