Pentecost Season · Proper 5 · Year A
Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26
The Call of Matthew; Mercy, Not Sacrifice
June 7, 2026
Overview & Insights
"Go and learn what this means, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners." (Matthew 9:13)
Jesus calls the tax collector Matthew and eats with sinners, defending mercy over ritual purity. He then raises a synagogue leader's dead daughter and heals a woman who touches the fringe of his cloak.
From Sermons.com: Join Today to access the most scholarly & well written preaching resources anywhere.
Take it further
Commentary
Commentary on Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 Working Preacher
Lectionary commentary on the calling of Matthew and Jesus' healing of desperate people.
Matthew 9 Commentary Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik's verse-by-verse notes on Matthew's call and the two intertwined healing stories.
Matthew 9:9 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentaries collected for the call of Matthew.
Matthew 9 Commentary Precept Austin
Precept Austin's commentary and sermon resources on Matthew 9.
Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
Reformed sermon commentary on Matthew's transformation from tax collector to disciple.
Background & Word Study
Matthew 9:9 Interlinear BibleHub
Greek text with parsing for the call and the healing narratives.
Overview: Gospel of Matthew BibleProject
Animated overview of Matthew's structure and themes.
The Messiah BibleProject
Background on the messianic authority Jesus shows in calling and healing.
Enter the Bible: Matthew Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary's introduction to the Gospel of Matthew (background only).
Worship & Prayers
Prep at sermons.com
Ready to write?
- Full sermons on Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26
- Illustrations cleared for use in worship
- Commentary, quotes, and Bible dictionary
Trusted by pastors since 1995.
Free every Tuesday
Illustrations & Sermon Prep in your inbox
The coming Sunday’s readings, a cleared-for-use illustration, and a sermon-prep head start. One email, free.