Topical Encyclopedia The term "Receipt of Custom" refers to the place or office where taxes or tolls were collected in ancient times, particularly within the context of the Roman Empire's occupation of Judea during the New Testament period. This term is often associated with tax collectors, who were known as publicans in the King James Version of the Bible. These individuals were responsible for collecting taxes from the Jewish populace on behalf of the Roman authorities.Biblical Context In the New Testament, the "receipt of custom" is mentioned in the context of Jesus calling His disciples. One of the most notable references is found in the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus calls Matthew, a tax collector, to follow Him: "As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax booth. 'Follow Me,' He told him, and Matthew got up and followed Him." (Matthew 9:9) This passage highlights the transformative power of Jesus' call, as Matthew, who was engaged in a profession often despised by his fellow Jews, left his position at the receipt of custom to become one of Jesus' twelve apostles. Cultural and Historical Background Tax collectors were generally viewed with disdain by the Jewish people. They were often seen as collaborators with the Roman occupiers and were notorious for their corrupt practices, such as overcharging and pocketing the excess. The receipt of custom was a place where these transactions occurred, and it symbolized the oppressive Roman taxation system. The role of tax collectors is further illustrated in the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, where Jesus contrasts the self-righteousness of the Pharisee with the humility of the tax collector: "But the tax collector stood at a distance, unwilling even to lift up his eyes to heaven. Instead, he beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner!'" (Luke 18:13) This parable underscores the theme of repentance and the grace of God, showing that even those who were considered sinners and outcasts could find forgiveness and redemption. Significance in the Ministry of Jesus The inclusion of tax collectors among Jesus' followers, such as Matthew and Zacchaeus, demonstrates the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry. It emphasizes that the Kingdom of God is open to all, regardless of their past or social standing. Jesus' willingness to associate with tax collectors and sinners was a point of contention with the religious leaders of the time, who criticized Him for eating and drinking with such individuals: "When the Pharisees saw this, they asked His disciples, 'Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?'" (Matthew 9:11) Jesus' response to this criticism highlights His mission to seek and save the lost: "But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." (Matthew 9:13) Conclusion The "receipt of custom" serves as a powerful symbol of the societal and spiritual barriers that Jesus sought to break down. Through His interactions with tax collectors, Jesus demonstrated the transformative power of His message and the boundless reach of God's grace. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Receipt of CustomRECEIPT OF CUSTOM re-set. Greek 5058. telonion -- tax office ... tax office. Neuter of a presumed derivative of telones; a tax-gatherer's place of business -- receipt of custom. see GREEK telones. (telonion) -- 3 Occurrences. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5058.htm - 6k Library Matt. Ix. 9 Of the Calling of Matthew, and of the Question Whether Matthew's ... Effectual Calling John Chapter xiii. 21-26. Things to be Realized. The Publicans' Friend The Call of Matthew Words of Counsel. The Apostles Chosen A Teacher with Authority Resources What is the Moravian Church? | GotQuestions.orgDoes the Bible support the Catholic practice of a marriage annulment? | GotQuestions.org What is a spiritual awakening? | GotQuestions.org Receipt: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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