Conversations- Overhearing Jesus Talk with People on Their Journeys: “Zacchaeus- A Wealthy Outcast Is Brought Into The Family” (Billy Russell, 04/07/19)

Conversations- Overhearing Jesus Talk with People on Their Journeys

             “Zaccheus- A Wealthy Outcast is Brought into the Family”

                                              (Luke 19:1-10)

 

Jesus takes his last walk from Jericho up to Jerusalem. He has told the disciples why he was going and what would happen there (Lk.18:31-34). Going through town, Jesus notices a man up a tree and invites him to share time together. What can we learn from overhearing/observing how Jesus connects with this man in conversation?

 

Lessons we’ve learned from Jesus’ Conversations (Powerpoint only)

Listen w/ interest like you’re truly interruptible.

Respond w/ gentleness even to selfish ambition.

Huddle up w/ purpose to focus on the mission.

Willingness to connect with all kinds of people.

Openness increases connection.

Make room for others along the journey.

 

                              Learning from Jesus’ Conversation

 

Who is Zacchaeus? Why his story? (19:1-4)- Jesus welcomes outsiders!

     A man, called “a chief tax-collector”

     “wealthy” (traitor, oversees collecting Roman taxes)

     described as “short”, wants to see Jesus (wealthy, but wants)

     resourceful (runs, climbs a tree to see); open to invitation

     eventually called “a son of Abraham” (faith)

 

Take a moment to notice people (19:5-6)- What’s going on around you?      

     Read non-verbal cues (93% of communication)

     See what others miss (insight into Jesus’ view)- providence!

 

Consider an invitation to spend time together (19:6)- make it happen!

     Jesus had a destination that day, but He took time out for a break.

     Jesus initiated & called him by name! He invited the outsider, who

            gladly responded. Grace-extended!

1. is a part of the divine mission of Jesus (“I must”- moral necessity)

 

Make room for surprise endings and celebrations (19:7-10)-

     Crowd- mutterers/grumblers, a friend of (the chief of) sinners (v.7)!

     Zacchaeus- accepts invitation, responds to Jesus: “stands up” and

        makes a vow of restitution to Jesus as a sign of repentance (vv.8-9)!

        “A thank offering from a changed heart” (EEE). Grace received!

     Jesus- celebrates seeing his mission fulfilled in this lost sheep coming

         into the fold. No content of the conversation, but the outcome (v.10)!