Topical Encyclopedia Tax-gatherers, often referred to as publicans in some Bible translations, were individuals responsible for collecting taxes on behalf of the Roman government during the time of the New Testament. Their role and reputation are significant in understanding the socio-political and religious context of the Gospels.Historical Context In the Roman Empire, tax collection was a crucial aspect of governance, ensuring the flow of revenue from the provinces to the central authorities. Tax-gatherers were typically Jews who worked for the Roman authorities, collecting taxes from their fellow countrymen. This position often placed them in a contentious relationship with the Jewish populace, as they were seen as collaborators with the occupying Roman forces. Social and Religious Perception Tax-gatherers were generally despised by the Jewish community. They were often associated with corruption and extortion, as they frequently collected more than what was required, keeping the excess for themselves. This perception is reflected in the Gospels, where tax-gatherers are often mentioned alongside "sinners" (Matthew 9:10-11). Their profession made them ritually unclean in the eyes of the Pharisees and other religious leaders, who prided themselves on strict adherence to the Law. Biblical References The New Testament provides several accounts involving tax-gatherers, highlighting both their societal status and the transformative power of Jesus' ministry: 1. Matthew the Apostle: One of the most notable tax-gatherers in the New Testament is Matthew, also known as Levi. Jesus called him to be one of His disciples, an act that demonstrated Jesus' willingness to reach out to those marginalized by society (Matthew 9:9). This calling underscores the theme of redemption and the breaking down of social barriers. 2. Zacchaeus: Another significant account is that of Zacchaeus, a chief tax-gatherer in Jericho. His encounter with Jesus led to a profound personal transformation, resulting in restitution and generosity (Luke 19:1-10). Zacchaeus' account illustrates the possibility of repentance and change, even for those considered outcasts. 3. Parables and Teachings: Jesus often used tax-gatherers in His parables to convey spiritual truths. In the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, the tax-gatherer is portrayed as humble and repentant, in contrast to the self-righteous Pharisee (Luke 18:9-14). This parable emphasizes the value of humility and genuine repentance before God. 4. Association with Jesus: Jesus' association with tax-gatherers was a point of contention for the religious leaders. They criticized Him for eating and drinking with them, which was seen as a violation of social and religious norms (Matthew 11:19). Jesus' response highlighted His mission to seek and save the lost, regardless of their social standing. Theological Implications The inclusion of tax-gatherers in the narrative of the Gospels serves as a powerful testament to the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry. It challenges the prevailing social and religious prejudices of the time, demonstrating that God's grace extends to all, irrespective of their past or societal status. The transformation of individuals like Matthew and Zacchaeus exemplifies the redemptive power of Christ's message and the call to a life of integrity and service. Library Jesus Fights Wrong in the Temple Jesus Makes Even Wrong-Doers his Friends Matthew the Publican Called from the Custom-House. --Familial ... And after Such Statements, Showing his Ignorance Even of the ... The Christian Conception of Life Has Already Arisen in Our Society ... Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House ... Self-Inspection. The Friend of Sinners On the Incarnation of Christ. The Pharisee and the Tax-Gatherer. Thesaurus Tax-gatherers (16 Occurrences)Tax-gatherers. Tax-gatherer, Tax-gatherers. Tax-gathers . Multi-Version Concordance Tax-gatherers (16 Occurrences). ... /t/tax-gatherers.htm - 11k Notorious (16 Occurrences) Eating (151 Occurrences) Drinking (114 Occurrences) Party (47 Occurrences) Seeing (442 Occurrences) Wine-drinker (2 Occurrences) Baptised (46 Occurrences) Sinners (132 Occurrences) Sect (10 Occurrences) Resources Why does the Bible speak so negatively about tax collectors? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the temple tax? | GotQuestions.org Why do governments allow churches to be tax-exempt? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Tax-gatherers (16 Occurrences)Matthew 5:46 Matthew 5:47 Matthew 9:10 Matthew 9:11 Matthew 11:19 Matthew 21:31 Matthew 21:32 Mark 2:15 Mark 2:16 Luke 3:12 Luke 5:29 Luke 5:30 Luke 7:29 Luke 7:34 Luke 15:1 Romans 13:6 Subtopics Related Terms |
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