Text: Luke 19:1-27
In Luke 19:1-7, we're told that Zacchaeus was a chief tax collector and a rich man. His curiosity led him to see Jesus. He had a problem though - he was short and could not see because of the crowd. The people didn't care whether he could see or not because tax collectors were hated. Zaccheus was a problem solver and didn't allow that to stop him. He climbed a sycamore tree to get a better view.
Jesus comes along and calls out to Zaccheus. Scripture tells us that Jesus only spoke and did what the Father told Him to do. So, the Father knew Zaccheus. Jesus had his name, where he was, and that He was to go to this man's house for dinner.
Zaccheus is overjoyed and does exactly what Jesus tells him to do. At this point during the encounter, he's a sinner, but he obeys the Lord.
Other people complained that Jesus was going to eat with a sinner. They didn't have joy in seeing one lost come to Jesus. Perhaps they wanted Him for themselves or just wanted Him to stay away from those they disliked.
Zaccheus' encounter results in his pledge to give half of what he owns to the poor and to return any money he's taken wrongfully with interest. Jesus didn't condemn him for his sins. The world expects condemnation from us. Instead, Jesus demonstrates what God desires of us.
To hear the entire message, please visit our website and click on the Media tab. You can listen online, download it to your MP3 player, or podcast.
If you're visiting in the area, want to know more about how the Bible is relevant to you, or want to get closer to the Lord, we invite you to Zoe Christian Fellowship. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Route 611), in Warrington, PA. We look forward to meeting you!
No comments:
Post a Comment