Charles Ellicott Commentary Matthew 9:11

"And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Teacher with the publicans and sinners?" — Matthew 9:11 (ASV)

When the Pharisees saw it—Mark identifies these as the “Scribes of the Pharisees” (Mark 2:16). These were probably the same scribes from Jerusalem who had been present at the healing of the paralytic.

They, of course, would not enter the tax collector’s house, but stood outside watching the mingled guests with wonder. They then asked their two-fold question: Why do you eat and drink... (Luke 5:30)? and, Why does your Master...?