Who's Seeking Who? - part 2

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Luke 19:1-10

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Responses

1^st- Zaccheus responds in obedience and with joy. Some translations use the word gladly; however the better translation would be he being Zaccheus received Him rejoicing.

2^nd- The crowd responds by grumbling. They are outraged that He would disgrace Himself by not only going to the house of a sinner but staying there overnight; which leads us to Zaccheus conversion.

Transformation/Security/Purpose

It is rather genius that the Holy Spirit would include the evidence of Zaccheus transformation. For the evidence here is not only overwhelming but serves as an example to all Christians of the importance of a transformed life.

Evidence #1- He confesses Jesus as Lord. The word stopped in verse 8 indicates he took a stand. He says you are my Lord. How awesome is this! Paul indicates in Romans that is certainly the action of a believer. (Romans 10:9-10)

Evidence #2- He says that half of my possessions I will give to the poor. What a change. What a great indication of self-denial. Let’s remember something very important. The text reveals that Zaccheus is a wealthy man. He went from being selfish to selfless. He went from being a taker to a giver. (Contrast the rich young ruler in chapter 18) This action in Zaccheus life is huge; but it doesn’t stop their. What about the other half of his wealth. This is what’s amazing!

Evidence #3- He says, “if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will give back four times as much.” Under Old Testament Law he could have given back everything plus one fifth. In doing so he would have been right on; however he puts himself in the category of a robber. The law said if you robbed someone with violence and destruction a fourfold restitution was required. Zaccheus judges himself as needing to give back 4 fold or 400 percent. His attitude is not how little can I get away with, but I want to give back with overflowing.

Security

Jesus says in verse 9 “salvation has come to this house; because he too is a son of Abraham.” What is Jesus saying? Well in Romans 2:28 the Bible unveils that “a Jew is not a Jew who is one outwardly, but is one inwardly. In other words it’s not about circumcision and religion on the outside, but it’s about the circumcision of the heart and relationship. Galatians 3:6-7 says, “Even so Abraham believed God and it was reckoned to him as righteousness. Therefore, be sure(know) that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham.”