To fulfill his mission, Jesus actively extends life-changing grace to people others would reject.
Talking Points:
- Jesus initiated the conversation with Zacchaeus. He could have passed on by to find someone more suitable. But Jesus called him by name. He entered his’ life and invited himself over to his house. Luke 19:1-5
- Zacchaeus was an evil man who had become rich oppressing these very people. Jesus knew full well who Zacchaeus was. But he did not see Zacchaeus in those terms. He saw beyond Zacchaeus’ past and his sin to see him as a potential “true son of Abraham”. Galatians 3:26-29
- Salvation comes by God’s grace, through faith alone. But it results in a life of doing good. This is exactly what we see with Zacchaeus. He became “a true son of Abraham” – by faith. In response to God’s grace, Zacchaeus’ life was changed. He gave away half of his wealth, and he made four-fold restitution to people he had cheated. Ephesians 2:8-10
- Jesus came to offer everyone this free gift of salvation, no matter who we are or what we’ve done. Luke 19:10
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Read Luke 19:1-5. How did Jesus take the initiative to meet Zacchaeus? How do you think Jesus is taking initiative toward people today?
- Why were people upset when Jesus decided to go home with Zacchaeus? What kind of people today would invite a similar reaction?
- Read Galatians 3:26-29. Jesus declared Zacchaeus to be a “true son of Abraham”. Who are the literal children of Abraham? Based on this passage, who are the true children of Abraham? (See “How Abraham’s Covenant Includes Us”.)
- How does Zacchaeus’ response to Jesus demonstrate the qualities of genuine repentance? (See “What Is True Repentance?“)
- Read Ephesians 2:8-10. How have you experienced the transforming power of God’s grace in your life?
- Are there people in your life who seem to be beyond God’s grace, and why? What do you learn from the story of Zacchaeus that gives you hope?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
