Topical Encyclopedia Introduction to PublicansPublicans, in the context of the New Testament, were tax collectors employed by the Roman Empire to collect taxes from the Jewish populace. They were often despised by their fellow Jews for their association with the occupying Roman forces and their reputation for extortion and corruption. Publicans were considered sinners and social outcasts, often grouped with "sinners" in the Gospels (Matthew 9:10-11). Zacchaeus: Chief Among Publicans Zacchaeus is a prominent figure among the publicans mentioned in the New Testament. He is described as a "chief tax collector" and is noted for his wealth (Luke 19:2). His position likely meant he was responsible for overseeing other tax collectors and had significant influence and authority in Jericho, a prosperous city due to its strategic location and trade routes. Encounter with Jesus The account of Zacchaeus is found in Luke 19:1-10. As Jesus was passing through Jericho, Zacchaeus, eager to see Him, climbed a sycamore tree due to his short stature and the large crowd (Luke 19:3-4). This act of climbing a tree, unusual for a man of his status, indicates Zacchaeus's determination and curiosity about Jesus. When Jesus reached the spot, He looked up and said, "Zacchaeus, hurry down, for I must stay at your house today" (Luke 19:5). This invitation was unexpected, as Jesus chose to associate with a man considered a sinner by the community. Zacchaeus's response was immediate; he "hurried down and welcomed Him joyfully" (Luke 19:6). Reaction of the Crowd The crowd's reaction to Jesus's decision to stay with Zacchaeus was one of disapproval. They grumbled, saying, "He has gone to be the guest of a sinful man" (Luke 19:7). This reflects the societal disdain for publicans and the shock that a respected teacher like Jesus would associate with such a person. Zacchaeus's Transformation In response to Jesus's acceptance, Zacchaeus demonstrated a profound change of heart. He stood and declared, "Look, Lord, half of my possessions I give to the poor, and if I have cheated anyone, I will repay it fourfold" (Luke 19:8). This pledge of restitution and generosity signifies genuine repentance and a desire to make amends for his past actions. Jesus's Pronouncement Jesus affirmed Zacchaeus's transformation by proclaiming, "Today salvation has come to this house, because this man too is a son of Abraham" (Luke 19:9). By calling Zacchaeus a "son of Abraham," Jesus restored his identity and dignity within the Jewish community, emphasizing that salvation is available to all, regardless of their past. The Mission of Jesus The encounter concludes with Jesus stating His mission: "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost" (Luke 19:10). This declaration underscores the purpose of Jesus's ministry—to reach out to those marginalized and deemed unworthy by society, offering them redemption and a place in the Kingdom of God. Significance The account of Zacchaeus serves as a powerful example of the transformative power of Jesus's love and acceptance. It highlights the theme of repentance and restitution, demonstrating that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. Zacchaeus's willingness to change and make restitution reflects the genuine repentance that Jesus calls for in His followers. Nave's Topical Index Luke 19:2-10And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich. Nave's Topical Index Library A Day to be Remembered C. The Last Stages. Chs. 17:11 to 19:28 The Believing Thief Resources What is a publican in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy does the Bible speak so negatively about tax collectors? | GotQuestions.org Does salvation affect more than just the afterlife? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Publicans: Change Their Ways Because of the Preaching of John the Baptist Publicans: Chiefs of, Were Very Rich Publicans: Many of Attended the Preaching of Christ Publicans: Many of Believed the Preaching of John Publicans: Many of Embraced the Gospel Publicans: Many of Received John's Baptism Publicans: Matthew the Apostle Was of Publicans: Matthew, the Tax Collector of Capernaum, Becomes an Apostle Publicans: Often Guilty of Extortion Publicans: Often Kind to Their Friends Publicans: Suspected of Extortion Publicans: The Collectors of the Public Taxes Publicans: The Jews: Classed With the Most Infamous Characters Publicans: The Jews: Despised Our Lord for Associating With Publicans: Zacchaeus, Chief Among, Receives Jesus Into his House Related Terms |
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