“And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples.” Matthew 9:10 Publicans, who were often of their own Jewish people, were the collectors of tax. The Jewish people of Jesus time hated paying tribute money to the Romans. “So Publicans were accused, sometimes correctly, of being: of “great detestation.” “people often of abandoned character,” “oppressive in their exactions.” “associated in character with thieves and adulterers; “profane.” “lacking honesty and moral integrity” material rapists — lacking restraint. They indulged in vice. The Religious Pharisees also accused Jesus of being a friend of these, “publicans and sinners.” Indeed He sat with them. And ate with them. Jesus list goes this way: gluttonous Winebibber Friend of sinners Friend of Publicans Blasphemer Judging by their appearance, the “all knowing” Pharisee conjured and surmised many things. Lets borrow some…