Luke 19:3
He was trying to see who Jesus was, but could not see over the crowd because he was small in stature.
He wanted to see who Jesus was, but was unable due to the crowd, for he was small in stature
He wanted to see
The desire to see Jesus reflects a deep yearning for truth and understanding. In the Greek, the word "see" (ὁρᾶν) implies more than just physical sight; it suggests a desire to perceive and understand. This longing to see Jesus is emblematic of the human quest for spiritual insight and connection with the divine. Zacchaeus, despite his social status and wealth, recognizes a void that only an encounter with Jesus can fill. This speaks to the universal need for spiritual fulfillment that transcends material wealth and societal position.

who Jesus was
This phrase indicates a curiosity about Jesus' identity and nature. Zacchaeus had likely heard of Jesus' teachings and miracles, sparking a desire to know more about Him. The Greek word for "who" (τίς) suggests an inquiry into Jesus' character and essence. This reflects the broader question that many in the Gospels ask: "Who is this man?" It underscores the mystery and allure of Jesus' persona, which draws people from all walks of life to seek Him out. Historically, Jesus' reputation as a teacher and miracle worker would have spread rapidly, creating a buzz that piqued Zacchaeus' interest.

but was unable due to the crowd
The crowd represents a physical and symbolic barrier to Zacchaeus' quest to see Jesus. In the Gospels, crowds often symbolize the obstacles and distractions that prevent individuals from encountering Christ. The Greek word for "crowd" (ὄχλος) can also imply a multitude or throng, suggesting the overwhelming nature of societal pressures and expectations. This highlights the challenges believers face in pursuing a relationship with Jesus amidst the noise and demands of the world. Zacchaeus' determination to overcome this barrier is a testament to his earnestness and the transformative power of faith.

for he was small in stature
Zacchaeus' physical limitation is noted here, yet it serves as a metaphor for spiritual humility. The Greek word for "stature" (ἡλικία) can refer to both physical height and maturity. His short stature is a literal obstacle, but it also symbolizes the humility required to seek Jesus. In a society that often values physical and social stature, Zacchaeus' willingness to acknowledge his limitations and seek Jesus is a powerful lesson in humility and the importance of recognizing one's need for God. This humility is a prerequisite for spiritual growth and transformation, as it opens the heart to receive divine grace.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Zacchaeus
A chief tax collector in Jericho, known for his wealth and his short stature. His desire to see Jesus demonstrates a curiosity or longing that transcends his social status and wealth.

2. Jesus
The central figure of the New Testament, whose presence in Jericho draws a large crowd. His reputation and teachings have sparked interest and hope among many, including Zacchaeus.

3. The Crowd
Represents the barriers and challenges that often stand between individuals and their pursuit of Jesus. The crowd's presence highlights the physical and social obstacles Zacchaeus faces.

4. Jericho
A significant city in biblical history, known for its walls that fell in the Old Testament. In the New Testament, it serves as the setting for Zacchaeus's encounter with Jesus.

5. The Sycamore Tree
Though not mentioned in verse 3, it becomes crucial in the following verses as Zacchaeus climbs it to see Jesus. It symbolizes the lengths one might go to overcome obstacles in seeking Christ.
Teaching Points
Overcoming Obstacles to See Jesus
Zacchaeus's determination to see Jesus despite his stature and the crowd teaches us the importance of perseverance in our spiritual journey.

Curiosity Leading to Transformation
Zacchaeus's initial curiosity about Jesus leads to a life-changing encounter. Our own questions and desires to know Jesus can lead to profound spiritual growth.

The Role of Humility
Zacchaeus's willingness to climb a tree, an undignified act for a man of his status, underscores the humility required to truly seek and encounter Christ.

Jesus's Accessibility
Despite the crowd, Jesus is accessible to those who earnestly seek Him. This encourages us to pursue Him regardless of the barriers we face.

The Impact of Personal Encounters with Jesus
Zacchaeus's account reminds us that personal encounters with Jesus can lead to repentance and transformation, impacting not only our lives but also those around us.
Bible Study Questions
1. What obstacles do you face in your pursuit of Jesus, and how can you overcome them like Zacchaeus did?

2. How does Zacchaeus's account encourage you to seek Jesus with curiosity and determination in your own life?

3. In what ways can humility play a role in your spiritual journey, as seen in Zacchaeus's actions?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt Jesus was accessible to you despite challenges. How did that experience impact your faith?

5. How can Zacchaeus's transformation inspire you to make changes in your life that reflect a deeper commitment to following Jesus?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Matthew 5:6
This verse speaks to the blessing of those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, paralleling Zacchaeus's earnest desire to see Jesus.

Hebrews 12:1-2
Encourages believers to lay aside every weight and sin, similar to how Zacchaeus overcomes the crowd to focus on Jesus.

James 4:8
Promises that drawing near to God will result in God drawing near to us, as seen in Zacchaeus's efforts to see Jesus and Jesus's response.
Zacchaeus; the Triumph of EarnestnessW. Clarkson Luke 19:1-9
A Household BlessingThe Congregational PulpitLuke 19:1-10
A Son of Abraham Found in Zacchaeus the PublicanR.M. Edgar Luke 19:1-10
Christ Seeking and Saving the LostA. J. Morris.Luke 19:1-10
Christ Seeking and Saving the LostT. Manton, D. D.Luke 19:1-10
Christ Seeking and Saving Those Who Were LostS. Lavington.Luke 19:1-10
Christ Seeks AllChristian HeraldLuke 19:1-10
Christ's Estimate of SinF. W. Robertson, M. A.Luke 19:1-10
Christ's MissionC. F. Deems, L. L. D.Luke 19:1-10
Christ's Words to ZaccheusW. Anderson.Luke 19:1-10
Conscience MoneyLuke 19:1-10
Difficulties OvercomeDr. McAuslane.Luke 19:1-10
Doing Good PromptlyH. Smith.Luke 19:1-10
Effectual CallingC. H. Spurgeon.Luke 19:1-10
Evidences of True ConversionChas. Walker.Luke 19:1-10
Gifts to the PoorT. T. Lynch.Luke 19:1-10
God Calls Men DawnT. B. Baker.Luke 19:1-10
Good News for the LostC. H. Spurgeon.Luke 19:1-10
Jesus Finds the SinnerLuke 19:1-10
LessonsJames Foote, M. A.Luke 19:1-10
Lessons from This PassageJ. Hewlett, B. D.Luke 19:1-10
Making an Effort to See JesusT. T. Lynch.Luke 19:1-10
ObstaclesT. Kelly.Luke 19:1-10
On RestitutionS. Partridge, M. A.Luke 19:1-10
Our Saviour's Visit to ZaccheusC. H. Spurgeon.Luke 19:1-10
Persistent SearchDe W. Talmage, D. D.Luke 19:1-10
RedemptionE. Hicks, M. A.Luke 19:1-10
RestitutionJ. N. Norton, D. D.Luke 19:1-10
RestitutionHenry Varley.Luke 19:1-10
RestitutionLuke 19:1-10
Restitution a Fruit of FaithLuke 19:1-10
Restitution as Proof of RepentanceFamily TreasuryLuke 19:1-10
Restitution Must be MadeDe W. Talmage, D. D.Luke 19:1-10
Restitution Necessary to PeaceD. L. Moody.Luke 19:1-10
Salvation for ZaccheusT. T. Lynch.Luke 19:1-10
Salvation in the HouseH. J. Wilmot Buxton, M. A.Luke 19:1-10
Saving the LostLuke 19:1-10
Seeking the LostFamily MagazineLuke 19:1-10
The Character of ZaccheusT. Kelly.Luke 19:1-10
The Christian not of the CrowdR. W Evans, B. D.Luke 19:1-10
The Conversion of ZaccheusG. R. Leavitt.Luke 19:1-10
The Conversion of ZaccheusT. Kelly.Luke 19:1-10
The Conversion of ZaccheusA. Boyd.Luke 19:1-10
The Duty of RestitutionS. K. Kolloch, M. A.Luke 19:1-10
The Lost and Sought-For SoulE. Johnson, M. A.Luke 19:1-10
The Lost are FoundT. Adams, D. D.Luke 19:1-10
The Mission of the Son of ManC. H. Spurgeon.Luke 19:1-10
The Nature of RestitutionArchbishop Tillotson.Luke 19:1-10
The Seeker SoughtJ. T. Woodhouse, M. A.Luke 19:1-10
The Seeking SaviourF. G. Davis.Luke 19:1-10
The Sinner's SaviourC. H. Spurgeon.Luke 19:1-10
Tholuck's Personal Effort for Individual SoulsLuke 19:1-10
Triumph Over HindrancesF. W. Robertson, M. A.Luke 19:1-10
Zaccheus a Type of the Christ-SeekerP. C. Croll.Luke 19:1-10
Zaccheus SavedG. Fisk, LL. B.Luke 19:1-10
Zaccheus the PublicanD. C. Hughes, M. A.Luke 19:1-10
People
Jesus, Zacchaeus
Places
Bethany, Bethphage, Jericho, Jerusalem, Mount of Olives, Olivet
Topics
Able, Account, Anxious, Attempt, Couldn't, Crowd, Multitude, Press, Seeking, Short, Sort, Sought, Stature, Trying, Unable, View, Zaccheus
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Luke 19:1-9

     5576   tax collectors

Luke 19:1-10

     5503   rich, the
     6029   sin, forgiveness

Luke 19:2-3

     5279   crowds

Library
August 31 Evening
Occupy till I come.--LUKE 19:13. The Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.--Unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.--Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?--Leaving
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

October 28. "Thou Good Servant, Because Thou Hast Been Faithful in a Very Little, have Thou Authority Over Ten Cities" (Luke xix. 17).
"Thou good servant, because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities" (Luke xix. 17). It is not our success in service that counts, but our fidelity. Caleb and Joshua were faithful and God remembered it when the day of visitation came. It was a very difficult and unpopular position, and all of us are called in the crisis of our lives to stand alone and in this very matter of trusting God for victory over sin and our full inheritance in Christ we have all to be
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

The Kingdom of Christ
LUKE xix. 41. And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it. Let us think awhile what was meant by our Lord's weeping over Jerusalem. We ought to learn thereby somewhat more of our Lord's character, and of our Lord's government. Why did he weep over that city whose people would, in a few days, mock him, scourge him, crucify him, and so fill up the measure of their own iniquity? Had Jesus been like too many, who since his time have fancied themselves saints and prophets, would
Charles Kingsley—Discipline and Other Sermons

Melted by Kindness
'And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to-day I must abide at thy house.' --LUKE xix. 5. It is characteristic of Luke that only he tells the story of Zacchaeus. He always dwells with special interest on incidents bringing out the character of Christ as the Friend of outcasts. His is eminently the Gospel of forgiveness. For example, we owe to Him the three supreme parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

The Trading Servants
'Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.... And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds.' --LUKE xix.16, 18. The Evangelist, contrary to his usual practice, tells us what was the occasion of this parable. It was spoken at Jericho, on our Lord's last journey to Jerusalem, Bethany was but a day's march distant; Calvary but a week ahead. An unusual tension of spirit marked our Lord's demeanour, and was noticed by the disciples with awe. It infected
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

The Rewards of the Trading Servants
'Because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities... Be thou also over five cities.'--LUKE xix. 17, 19. The relation between this parable of the pounds and the other of the talents has often been misunderstood, and is very noteworthy. They are not two editions of one parable variously manipulated by the Evangelists, but they are two parables presenting two kindred and yet diverse aspects of one truth. They are neither identical, as some have supposed, nor contradictory,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

A New Kind of King
'And when He was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; 38. Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. 38. And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto Him, Master, rebuke Thy disciples. 40. And He answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

December the Eighteenth the Sinner's Guest
"He is gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner." --LUKE xix. 1-10. It was hurled as an accusation; it has been treasured as a garland. It was first said in contempt; it is repeated in adoration. It was thought to reveal His earthliness; it is now seen to unveil His glory. Our Saviour seeks the home of the sinner. The Best desires to be the guest of the worst. He spreads His kindnesses for the outcasts, and He offers His friendship to the exile on the loneliest road. He waits to befriend the
John Henry Jowett—My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year

August the Twenty-Sixth Missing the Lord
"Thou knowest not the time of thy visitation." --LUKE xix. 37-44. Yes, that has been my sad experience. I have wasted some of my wealthiest seasons. I have treated the hour as common and worthless, and the priceless opportunity has passed. There have been times when my Lord has come to me, and I have turned Him away from my door. He so often journeys "incognito," and if I am thoughtless I dismiss Him, and so lose the privilege of heavenly communion and benediction. He knocks at my door as a Carpenter,
John Henry Jowett—My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year

Effectual Calling
1. Now, first, effectual calling is a very gracious truth. You may guess this from the fact that Zaccheus was a character whom we should suppose the last to be saved. He belonged to a bad city--Jericho--a city which had been cursed, and no one would suspect that any one would come out of Jericho to be saved. It was near Jericho that the man fell among thieves; we trust Zaccheus had no hand in it; but there are some who, while they are publicans, can be thieves also. We might as well expect converts
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 2: 1856

The Mission of the Son of Man
Our text announces as a declaration of our Saviour, that he, the Son of Man, is come to seek and to save that which was lost. In addressing you this morning, I shall simply divide my discourse thus:--First, I shall lay it down as a selfevident truth, that whatever was the intention of Christ in his coming into the world that intention most certainly shall never be frustrated. We shall then in the second place, look into the intention of Christ, as announced in the text, viz., "to seek and to save
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 4: 1858

A Day to be Remembered
"And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house."--Luke 19:9. OBSERVE, DEAR FRIENDS, that our Lord spoke this sentence to Zacchaeus. Some of us may have fancied that he said it to the objecting people, but he did not. They may have heard it, and their objection may have been answered by it, but the main purpose of our blessed Lord, in uttering those words, was not to answer objectors, but to comfort one who might feel dispirited by their murmuring remark. Therefore, "Jesus said
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 46: 1900

The Honoured Guest
ARE you prepared, like Zaccheus, to give the Lord Jesus Christ a glad and grateful welcome? If we would obtain the full benefit of his devoted life, his atoning death, and his triumphant resurrection, we must receive him into our hearts by simple faith, and entertain him with tender love. Outside the door of our heart Jesus is a stranger; he is no Saviour to us; but inside the heart which has been opened, by divine grace, to admit him, his power is displayed, his worth is known, and his goodness
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 61: 1915

The Tears of Christ.
(Tenth Sunday after Trinity.) S. LUKE xix. 41. "He beheld the city, and wept over it." The saddest sight, save one, in the history of the world is that pictured in the text--the Son of God weeping over the city which God had chosen to put His Name there. Let us, in fancy, to-day look upon the scene on which our Saviour looked, and recall the history of that city which had lost sight of the things concerning her peace. No other city in the world, not even Rome, has such a wonderful story as Jerusalem.
H. J. Wilmot-Buxton—The Life of Duty, a Year's Plain Sermons, v. 2

The Consequences of Sin.
10th Sunday after Trinity. S. Luke xix, 42. "If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes." INTRODUCTION.--I spoke to you the other day about the measure of sin, and showed you that there was a certain limit allotted to every man, beyond which he could not go and still expect forgiveness, a point in the downward course at which the Holy Spirit will cease to strive to hold him back. We see in this day's Gospel
S. Baring-Gould—The Village Pulpit, Volume II. Trinity to Advent

Ciii. Zacchæus. Parable of the Pounds. Journey to Jerusalem.
(Jericho.) ^C Luke XIX. 1-28. ^c 1 And he entered and was passing through Jericho. [This was about one week before the crucifixion. Jericho is about seven miles from the Jordan and about seventeen and a half from Jerusalem.] 2 And behold, a man called by name Zacchaeus; and he was a chief publican, and he was rich. [See p. 76. It is probable that Zacchæus was a sub-contractor under some Roman knight who had bought the privilege of collecting taxes at Jericho, or perhaps the privilege of all
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

In Jericho and at Bethany - Jericho - a Guest with Zacchæus - the Healing of Blind Bartimæus - the Plot at Jerusalem - at Bethany,
ONCE more, and now for the last time, were the fords of Jordan passed, and Christ was on the soil of Judæa proper. Behind Him were Peræa and Galilee; behind Him the Ministry of the Gospel by Word and Deed; before Him the final Act of His Life, towards which all had consciously tended. Rejected as the Messiah of His people, not only in His Person but as regarded the Kingdom of God, which, in fulfilment of prophecy and of the merciful Counsel of God, He had come to establish, He was of
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Last Week of Jesus.
Jesus did in fact set out with his disciples to see once more, and for the last time, the unbelieving city. The hopes of his companions were more and more exalted. All believed, in going up to Jerusalem, that the kingdom of God was about to be realized there.[1] The impiety of men being at its height, was regarded as a great sign that the consummation was at hand. The persuasion in this respect was such, that they already disputed for precedence in the kingdom.[2] This was, it is said, the moment
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus

The Servants and the Pounds.
"And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear. He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come. But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us. And
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord

General Principles of Interpretation. 1 Since the Bible Addresses Men in Human Language...
CHAPTER XXXIV. GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF INTERPRETATION. 1. Since the Bible addresses men in human language, and according to human modes of thinking and speaking, the interpreter's first work is to ascertain the meaning of the terms employed. Here he must proceed as in the case of other writings, seeking by the aid of grammars, lexicons, cognate languages, ancient versions, ancient interpreters, and whatever other outward helps are available, to gain a thorough knowledge of the language employed by
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible

Monday in Passion Week. And when He was Come Near, He Beheld the City and Wept Over It.
And when He was come near, He beheld the city and wept over it. Du weinest für Jerusalem [76]Heermann. 1630. trans. by Catherine Winkworth, 1855 Thou weepest o'er Jerusalem, Lord Jesus, bitter tears; But deepest comfort lies in them For us, whose sins have filled our soul with tears: Since they that tell, When sinners turn to Thee Thou lov'st it well, And surely wilt efface, of Thy unbounded grace, All the misdeeds that on our conscience dwell. When God's just wrath and anger burn Against
Catherine Winkworth—Lyra Germanica: The Christian Year

Epistle Xlvii. To Dominicus, Bishop.
To Dominicus, Bishop. Gregory to Dominicus, Bishop of Carthage [1454] . We have received with the utmost gratification the letters of your Fraternity, which have reached us somewhat late by the hands of Donatus and Quodvultdeus, our most reverend brethren and fellow-bishops, and also Victor the deacon with Agilegius the notary. And though we thought that we had suffered loss from the tardiness of their coming, yet we find gain from their more abundant charity; seeing that from this delay in point
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Epistle xii. To Conon, Abbot of Lirinus (Lerins).
To Conon, Abbot of Lirinus (Lerins). Gregory to Conon, Abbot of the Monastery of Lirinus [126] . The carefulness of persons in authority is the safeguard of subjects, since one who watches over what is entrusted to him avoids the snares of the enemy. But how skilful thou art in ruling the brethren, and how earnestly watchful in keeping guard over them, we have learnt from the report of our most reverend brother and fellow-bishop Mennas [127] . And as our hearing of the unwary remissness of thy predecessor
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

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