Untitled Sermon

Climbing Trees to Find Jesus

Bible Passage: Lk 19:1–10

Summary: This passage recounts the story of Zacchaeus, a tax collector who, despite his stature and social standing, climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus as he passed through Jericho. Jesus stops and calls him down, transforming Zacchaeus' life and demonstrating the radical nature of God's grace.

Application: This sermon can help Christians and others understand that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace, regardless of their past or their social status. It encourages us to earnestly seek Jesus, just as Zacchaeus did, and find our true identity in Him rather than in worldly labels and judgments.

Teaching: The teaching revolves around God's initiative to seek and save the lost, exemplified in the reach of Jesus toward Zacchaeus and the transformational power of repentance and restoration that follows an encounter with Christ.

How this passage could point to Christ: Zacchaeus' story illustrates how Jesus fulfills His mission as the Savior who seeks out the lost. This event connects to the broader theme of Jesus reaching out to those marginalized and alienated from society, ultimately pointing to His sacrificial love for all humanity as seen on the cross.

Big Idea: No one is too far gone or too insignificant to be seen and saved by Jesus; in fact, He is actively seeking you out to bring you into relationship with Him.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider utilizing Logos to explore the cultural context of tax collectors in first-century Judea, as this will enhance your understanding of Zacchaeus’ position in society. Look into the Greek terms used for repentance and salvation in this passage, and consider the implications of Jesus' choice to dine with Zacchaeus. These insights will aid in clarifying the transformative power of grace in a relatable manner.

1. Climbing for Connection

Lk 19:1-4

Perhaps you could focus on Zacchaeus’ desperate desire to see Jesus, which led him to climb a tree despite social ridicule. This point highlights the lengths one might go to in order to encounter Christ and how Jesus is always within reach, no matter the obstacles we face in our lives. Encourage the audience to pursue Jesus eagerly, knowing that He is already looking for them, much like He stopped for Zacchaeus.

2. Calling by Name

Lk 19:5-7

You could discuss Jesus’ initiative in calling Zacchaeus by name and choosing to dine with him, which shows that Christ knows us personally and desires intimacy with us. His actions demonstrate that no one is beyond God's love, regardless of societal labels or sins. Encourage the audience by showing how Jesus reaches out to us in our lives and invites us into a transformative relationship.

3. Converted and Changed

Lk 19:8-10

Maybe focus on the transformation that follows Zacchaeus’ encounter with Jesus, as evidenced by his repentance and commitment to restitution. This point emphasizes the joy and the change that come from salvation and the powerful impact of Jesus’ presence in our lives. Encourage the congregation to experience and embody the change that Jesus brings, living out the grace they have received.