Topical Encyclopedia Publicans, known in the New Testament as tax collectors, were often viewed with disdain by the Jewish populace due to their association with the Roman authorities and their reputation for extortion. Despite their negative reputation, the Gospels provide instances that highlight the kindness and generosity publicans could exhibit, particularly towards their friends and associates.Biblical Context Publicans were Jews employed by the Roman Empire to collect taxes from their fellow countrymen. This role often placed them in a position of social ostracism, as they were seen as collaborators with the occupying forces. The Gospel accounts, however, reveal a more nuanced picture of these individuals, showing that they were capable of acts of kindness and loyalty, especially within their own circles. Zacchaeus: A Notable Example One of the most prominent examples of a publican who demonstrated kindness is Zacchaeus. In Luke 19:1-10, Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector, is described as a wealthy man who sought to see Jesus. Upon meeting Jesus, Zacchaeus's heart was transformed, leading him to make amends for his past actions. He declared, "Look, Lord, half of my possessions I give to the poor, and if I have cheated anyone, I will repay it fourfold" (Luke 19:8). This act of restitution and generosity highlights his willingness to go beyond mere friendship, extending kindness to those he may have wronged. Matthew: A Call to Fellowship Matthew, also known as Levi, was another tax collector who became a disciple of Jesus. In Matthew 9:9-13, Jesus calls Matthew to follow Him, and Matthew responds by hosting a banquet in his home. The event was attended by many tax collectors and sinners, indicating Matthew's continued association with his peers. Despite the criticism from the Pharisees, Jesus defended the gathering, emphasizing His mission to call sinners to repentance. This account illustrates the camaraderie and hospitality Matthew extended to his friends, even as he embarked on a new path of discipleship. Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector In Luke 18:9-14, Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, which underscores the humility and sincerity that can be found in the hearts of publicans. The tax collector in the parable stands at a distance, unwilling to lift his eyes to heaven, and prays, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner!" (Luke 18:13). This parable highlights the potential for genuine repentance and humility among publicans, qualities that can foster deep and meaningful relationships with others. Social Gatherings and Generosity Publicans were known to host social gatherings, as seen in the accounts of Zacchaeus and Matthew. These events were opportunities for them to demonstrate generosity and kindness to their friends and associates. The willingness of publicans to share their wealth and resources with others, despite their societal status, reflects a capacity for kindness that transcends their professional role. Conclusion The New Testament provides a multifaceted view of publicans, acknowledging their societal challenges while also highlighting their potential for kindness and generosity. Through the examples of Zacchaeus, Matthew, and the parable of the tax collector, we see that publicans were capable of forming genuine, caring relationships with their friends and associates, often extending kindness and hospitality in ways that defied their negative stereotypes. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 5:46,47For if you love them which love you, what reward have you? do not even the publicans the same? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library St. Cyprian. Some Words and Works of Jesus "Do Men Gather Grapes of Thorns?" The Friend of Sinners The Unjust Steward A Gluttonous Man and a Winebibber Second Great Group of Parables. Herod and John the Baptist Matt. x. 7, 8, 9 Private Property and the Common Good 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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