Chapter 4: Zacchaeus
Based on Luke 19:1-10

Scripture Background

The author of the Gospel of Luke wanted to show that Jesus' message was for everyone--even an outcast. In those days, tax collectors were despised. They unfairly took money from people who could not afford it. They used this money for their own wealth. By having Jesus go to Zacchaeus' home, Luke proves that Jesus' message and mission are for all people.

Jesus came to a town called Jericho. A man named Zacchaeus lived there. Zacchaeus was a tax collector. He was a very wealthy man.

Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus. But the crowd was too large. So Zacchaeus ran ahead and climbed a tree. When Jesus reached the tree, he saw Zacchaeus and said, "Zacchaeus, come down. I must stay at your house." Zacchaeus was very happy. But many people were upset because Zacchaeus had treated them unfairly.

Zacchaeus said, "I will give people four times the money I unfairly took from them. I will also give half of my money to the poor." Jesus said, "Today you have been saved."

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"Today you have been saved."
Based on Luke 19:9

Look for More in the Bible

Read what Jesus teaches us about the importance of forgiveness.
Matthew 18:12-14, 21-22, 23-35