Topical Encyclopedia Publicans, often referred to as tax collectors in the New Testament, were individuals responsible for collecting taxes on behalf of the Roman government. They were typically Jews who worked under the Roman authorities, and their profession was generally despised by their fellow countrymen. Publicans were often associated with corruption and extortion, as they were known to collect more than what was required, keeping the excess for themselves. This practice led to their reputation as sinners and social outcasts within Jewish society.Despite their negative reputation, the New Testament records instances where publicans responded positively to the message of repentance and salvation. One of the most notable examples is their response to the preaching of John the Baptist. John, known for his call to repentance and preparation for the coming Messiah, attracted a diverse audience, including publicans. In the Gospel of Luke, it is recorded that publicans came to John to be baptized, seeking guidance on how to live righteously. Luke 3:12-13 states, "Even tax collectors came to be baptized. 'Teacher,' they asked, 'what should we do?' 'Collect no more than you are authorized,' he answered." This interaction highlights the willingness of some publicans to change their ways and align themselves with the teachings of John, demonstrating a genuine desire for repentance and moral reform. The openness of publicans to John's message is further emphasized in Luke 7:29 , which says, "All the people who heard this, even the tax collectors, acknowledged God’s justice. For they had received the baptism of John." This verse underscores the fact that publicans, despite their societal status, were receptive to the divine call for repentance and recognized the righteousness of God's plan. The transformation of publicans is also exemplified in the life of Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector, who encountered Jesus and experienced a profound change of heart. In Luke 19:8 , Zacchaeus declares, "Look, Lord, half of my possessions I give to the poor, and if I have cheated anyone, I will repay it fourfold." This act of restitution and generosity reflects the impact of the Gospel message on those who were once considered far from God. The inclusion of publicans among those who believed and repented serves as a powerful testament to the inclusive nature of the Gospel. It illustrates that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace and that true repentance can lead to a transformed life, regardless of one's past. The response of publicans to the preaching of John the Baptist and their subsequent encounters with Jesus highlight the redemptive power of the Gospel and the hope it offers to all, including those marginalized by society. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 21:32For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and you, when you had seen it, repented not afterward, that you might believe him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library John the Baptist's Person and Preaching. Relations of the Pharisees and Sadducees to the Baptist. Imprisonment and Death of John The Two Sons. Matt. Iii. 1, 2 But when Simon Cephas Saw this He Fell Before the Feet of Jesus... 1 Timothy i. 14-Dec The Temple Cleansed Again The Story of the Stranger at the Well Tuesday --The Day of Controversy. 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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