The text for this lesson is Luke 19:1–10
Key Point
- Like Zacchaeus, we are among the lost whom the Son of Man came to seek and to save. Jesus asks us to forgive those who sin against us, as He forgives us, unconditionally.
- Law: I sin when I ignore my own sinfulness and focus on the sinfulness of others, rejecting them because of it.
- Gospel: Christ’s blood covers not only my sins but also the sins of every sinner, no strings attached.
Discussion Points
- Are there any situations in your life where you remember the pain and distress of someone’s sin against you? Is there a situation like this in which you haven’t forgiven the person who has sinned against you? Are there situations you can recall where you caused someone pain and distress by your sin?
- Who is Zacchaeus? How does Luke describe him and his actions? Does this tell us anything about Zacchaeus’s faith or attitude?
- What does Jesus do when He reaches Zacchaeus? What does it mean for Jesus to say that He must stay at Zacchaeus’s house? How does Zacchaeus, in turn, respond to Jesus?
- What is the grumbling complaint of those who see this? How does Luke respond to this accusation?
- Read verses 8–10. Is Jesus saying that salvation has come to Zacchaeus because he will give his goods to the poor and make restitution with those whom he defrauded? Why or why not?
- Whom does Jesus come to seek and save? Who is included in this? Who is excluded? How do we know if we’re included?
- What should our attitude be toward others who commit great sins? What about those who sin against us personally? Read Ephesians 2:14–18 when answering this question.
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