Matthew 11:19
Matthew 11:1919The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at this glutton and drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ But wisdom is vindicated by her actions.”
JWs acknowledge that Jesus associated with sinners to preach to them but argue this was temporary, purpose-driven engagement rather than ongoing social fellowship. The Watchtower maintains that regular social contact with disfellowshipped persons — even family members — undermines congregational purity and risks spiritual contamination. Jesus' practice is framed as exceptional apostolic authority, not a model for ordinary Witnesses.
Jesus was called "a friend of tax collectors and sinners" () — and he did not deny it. He attended their dinners (), called them to discipleship (), and defended his practice against Pharisaic critics who insisted on separation. When challenged, Jesus quoted : "I want mercy, not sacrifice" (). Paul's instruction in — "continue admonishing him as a brother" — presupposes ongoing contact, not total severance. The verb "admonish" requires a relationship. The Watchtower's shunning policy more closely resembles the Pharisees' separationist instinct than Jesus' own practice of pursuing the marginalised with compassion and shared meals.