Matthew Poole and continuators on Luke 7:39

39 Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him, saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is, that toucheth him, for she is a sinner.

How easily are persons, (tho seemingly well inclined and fair,) offended, who have not the Love of God rooted and grounded in their hearts? Did then all Men who were Prophets, know Persons at first sight? It is certain they knew no more of Peoples hearts and Lives, then God was pleased to reveal to them or they knew by converse with them, and observation of them. 2, Suppose she had been a Sinner, might she not be a convert now; and did not her behaviour toward Christ, (before mentioned) witness a change in her? 3. Admit she had been yet such a Sinner, yet might not she touch Christ? This was indeed a Pharisaical error That all not of their own Religion, and all Persons notorious for some Sins, were in the same order, as Lepers, and other Persons that were Levitically, or Legally Vnclean, so as none might touch them, but that contact made them also Unclean. It is said, also of the Samaritans, that when they meet a Iew, or a Christian, they would first call out to him, Do not touch me. That there was of old such a Party amongst the Jews that cryed, stand by thy self, come not near to me, for I am holier then thou, is plain from Isaiah 65. v. 5.

Marginal references: Chap. 15.2.