Mark 2:13-17

In Mark 2:13–17, we encounter one of the most shocking and grace-filled moments in the Gospel of Mark. Jesus calls Levi—a wealthy, morally compromised tax collector—to leave everything behind and follow Him. Without hesitation, Levi rises from a life of profitable sin and joins Christ. What follows only deepens the controversy: Jesus reclines at the table with tax collectors and sinners, drawing sharp criticism from the religious elite.

In this sermon, Pastor David Baalbergen explores why Jesus intentionally calls the morally broken, why grace always comes before repentance, and why the gospel is devastating news for those who trust in their own goodness—but breathtakingly good news for sinners who know they need a Savior. Jesus does not lower God’s standard of holiness; He exposes the illusion that anyone has ever met it apart from Him.

Christ declares that He came not for the self-righteous, but for the sick—to forgive sinners, to break the spell of sin, and to call people out of hopeless lawlessness into the joy of His kingdom. The question this passage presses on every heart is simple but eternal: Will you stand before God clothed in your own righteousness, or in Christ’s?

📖 Sermon Text: Mark 2:13–17 (CSB)

🎤 Preacher: David Baalbergen

📍 Church: East Brainerd Baptist Church

📅 Date: December 28, 2025

If you know your need for grace—or if you’ve been trusting in your own goodness—this message is for you. We warmly invite you to worship with us in person.

🕊 Sunday Service: 11:00 AM

📍 Address: 1047 Graysville Rd, Chattanooga, TN

🌐 Website: https://eastbrainerdbaptist.org