Matthew Party

Have a Matthew Party!

In Luke 5:27-32, Matthew, a tax collector, decided to follow Jesus. And upon making this
exciting decision, the first thing he did, was to throw a big feast (or party) and invite all of his
other friends who were also tax collectors over to his house.

Of course… this made the religious folks of the day very angry, and they accused Jesus of
eating with, drinking with, and being a friend of sinners.

To these accusations, Jesus replied… “Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick? I’m here inviting
outsiders, not insiders – an invitation to a changed life, changed inside and out.” (Luke 5:31 MES)

This was uncomfortable for the religious people, because:
• Matthew was not a speaker sharing from their platform
• He wasn’t one of their chosen select few
• Matthew was considered the “filth” of society
• The meeting was not held in the synagogue
• It was not labeled a study of scripture (or Bible study)
It was simply… dinner at Matthew’s place, and Jesus was a guest.

Although Jesus didn’t share in the life style or sinful habits of these tax collectors, He was able
to look past their outer appearance, and with the love of the Father, see people who needed a
Savior. We know this by His reply in Luke 5:31 (above).

What is a Matthew Party?
It is a get-together (or party) with the purpose of getting to know those around you, and in
love, introducing them to Jesus. The invitation list should consist of both people that are still far
from God, as well as a few Christ-followers.

As Christians we need to remember, that we can do many good things for God, but if we do
not truly love others, it is all for nothing!

Here are a few ideas you might consider for a Matthew party at your house
• A picnic
• A pizza party
• Pool party
• Game night (outdoor or indoor)
• A Block Party
• Super Bowl Party
• A Christmas Tea
• A Sidewalk Carnival
• A Pet Show
• Free Chili Feed
• Free Spaghetti Feed
• All Saints Party
• Open House Celebration
• Neighbors Night
• Friend Day
• Concert In the Park
• Under the Big Top
• Baseball Sunday
• Athlete Sunday
• Neighborhood Barbeque

A few points to consider
• Be sure that those who are already Christ-followers are outnumbered, so that those
who are far from Christ don’t feel like they are being ganged up on.
• Try to decide which Christ-followers would be best for those on your invitation list.
You might think about age, stage in life, interests, temperament, etc. You want this to
be a wonderful experience for all.
• You should never find yourself “enjoying” the ways of the world – or participating in
them.
Think of an event you wouldn’t want to miss, plan it, prepare for it, promote it, experience it
and then FOLLOW-UP those who attended. Make sure a clear Gospel message is shared and
an invitation to accept Christ is given.

Remember the goal is to always – in love – point to Jesus!