Luke 19:1-10 recounts the story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector, and his encounter with Jesus. This narrative emphasizes themes of salvation, transformation, and Jesus’ mission to seek and save the lost. Here’s a breakdown of the passage:
Verse 1: “And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho.” This verse sets the scene, indicating that Jesus was passing through the city of Jericho.
Verse 2: “And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.” Zacchaeus is introduced as a chief tax collector, a position that often garnered wealth but also earned the disdain of the people due to the association with Roman authority.
Verse 3: “And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.” Zacchaeus’s curiosity about Jesus led him to seek a way to see Him. Due to his short stature and the crowd, he climbed a sycamore tree to get a better view.
Verse 4: “And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for today I must abide at thy house.” Jesus, knowing Zacchaeus by name, calls him down from the tree and expresses His intention to stay at Zacchaeus’s house.
Verse 5: “And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.” Zacchaeus responds with joy and eagerness, immediately coming down from the tree to welcome Jesus.
Verse 6: “And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner.” The crowd’s reaction highlights the skepticism of the people, as tax collectors were often regarded as sinners due to their collaboration with the oppressive Roman regime.
Verse 7: “And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.” Zacchaeus responds to Jesus by expressing his commitment to restitution and charitable giving, reflecting a heart transformed by encountering Jesus.
Verse 8: “And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham.” Jesus acknowledges Zacchaeus’s repentance and declares that salvation has come to his house, indicating spiritual transformation.
Verse 9: “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Jesus concludes by explaining His purpose: to seek and save those who are spiritually lost, highlighting the central message of His ministry.
The story of Zacchaeus showcases the transformative power of encountering Jesus. It demonstrates that salvation is available to all, regardless of their past, and that a genuine encounter with Christ leads to a change of heart and actions.
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