Friend of Sinners

Apr 19, 2026    Pastor Brandon Ware

They meant it as an insult… but it’s actually our greatest hope.


“The Friend of Sinners.”


In Mark 2:13–17, Jesus does something shocking—He calls a tax collector, sits at a table full of outcasts, and welcomes the very people religion rejected.


Why? Because grace works differently than religion.


Religion says: Clean yourself up, then come.

Jesus says: Come as you are, and I will change you.


This message cuts deep:

• You can be religious… and still far from God

• You can look right… and be wrong at heart

• You can feel too far gone… and still be fully loved


Jesus didn’t come for the “perfect”—He came for the broken.

Not for the self-righteous—but for sinners who know they need Him.


👉 Are you trusting in your goodness… or His grace?

👉 Do you see your need for a Savior?


The table is open. The invitation is real.

And Jesus is still the Friend of sinners.


If you’re ready to respond to the Savior who came for you, visit https://whatasavior.com/journey to learn what it means to follow Jesus and take your next step in faith.


Hopewell Baptist Church – Monroe, NC

Visit https://whatasavior.com for more information

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#Mark #HopewellBaptist #ComeAsYouAre #GraceOverReligion #JesusSaves