The Rich Publican of Jericho

88. The Rich Publican of Jericho

Zacchaeus is a publican – a tax collector for the Romans. That would make him unpopular among the Jew’s rank and file.

Clearly Zacchaeus has heard of Jesus, has a good impression of him, and is eager to meet him. Jesus likewise may have been told of Zacchaeus by disciples who scouted the town prior to Jesus’ arrival. So when Jesus sees a man small of stature up in a sycamore tree, he has a pretty good idea who it is. Also, having likely been told of his receptivity, Jesus probably sees Zacchaeus’ as a good prospect and so declares his intention to visit Zacchaeus at his home, where presumably they spend some quality time together.

Once again, Jesus association with “sinners” does not go down well with the Jewish leadership, who view such people as pariahs. As we’ve seen, Jesus has a different perspective about sinners: because of their ostracism they are often the ones most open to his message. Clearly he was right about Zacchaeus, who, upon hearing Jesus’ teachings, decides to make full retribution for anything he may have done wrongfully.

[See also “Teaching About Reliance on Wealth” (Commentary 12-67), “God vs. Mammon” (Commentary 13-75), “Relation of Possessions to Eternal Life” (Commentary 14-85).]