Zacchaeus the Tax Collector (Luke 19:1–10)

Have you ever felt too unworthy for God’s attention? The story of Zacchaeus reminds us that Jesus sees us, calls us by name, and welcomes us into His grace. No past mistake is too big for Him to redeem.

📖 Story Summary

In Luke 19, Jesus entered Jericho, and a wealthy tax collector named Zacchaeus wanted to see Him. Because he was short and could not see over the crowd, he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree.

When Jesus came to the spot, He looked up and said: “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” (Luke 19:5, NIV).

Zacchaeus came down joyfully and welcomed Jesus. But the crowd muttered in disapproval because Jesus chose to be a guest of a sinner.

In response, Zacchaeus stood and declared that he would give half of his possessions to the poor and repay anyone he had cheated four times the amount. Jesus said to him: “Today salvation has come to this house… For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:9–10, NIV).

Jesus Sees and Calls Us

Zacchaeus thought he was just climbing a tree to see Jesus, but Jesus saw him first. In the same way, God notices us where we are and calls us personally to Himself.

Grace That Transforms

Meeting Jesus changed Zacchaeus completely. His greed turned into generosity, and his dishonesty into repentance. Real encounters with Christ always lead to transformation.

Jesus’ Mission to Seek the Lost

This story highlights Jesus’ mission: to seek and save the lost. No one is beyond His reach, and His invitation is open to all who respond in faith.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” — Luke 19:10 (NIV)

Closing Encouragement

The story of Zacchaeus reminds us that Jesus welcomes us as we are but never leaves us the same. When we respond to His call, He brings forgiveness, joy, and a new way of life. Like Zacchaeus, we can step down from our hiding places and walk with Him in freedom.

✨ Have a Question?

If you have a question please use the Ask a Bible Question page, where you can send in your question directly. Every question matters, and I’ll do my best to answer with guidance from God’s Word.

You can also leave your questions on my YouTube channel where I regularly share Bible verses, encouragement, and answers to common questions.