Study 11: Courage to Welcome Jesus Publicly
Passage: Luke 19:1–10 (Zacchaeus)
Historical Context

• Tax collectors were seen as traitors and sinners, often exploiting their own people.
• Zacchaeus is described as “chief tax collector” → especially wealthy and disliked.
• Climbing a tree would be undignified for a man of his status.

Literary Observations

• Movement: seeking → being seen → transformation.
• Jesus initiates: “I must stay at your house.”
• Public grumbling contrasts with private transformation.

Theological Insight

• Salvation involves both grace and response (repentance, restitution).
• Jesus seeks the lost intentionally.
• Courage includes visible, public change.

Greek Insights

• “Seeking” (ζητέω / zēteō)
   Active pursuit.
   → Zacchaeus is intentional.
• “Must” (δεῖ / dei)
   Divine necessity.
   → Jesus’ mission is purposeful, not random.
• “Salvation” (σωτηρία / sōtēria)
   Deliverance, restoration.
   → It comes into households, not just individuals.

Discussion

• What does genuine life change look like?
• How do you respond to Jesus’ initiative toward you?
• What stands out for you?
• Where do you need to persist in prayer?