Prop. 26C - Lk 19:1-10 - Context
Context:
The preceding passages seem much more tied thematically to the story of Zacchaeus than the following passages. Language and ideas have strong parallels. The idea of a barrier between Jesus and people seeking justification, and mercy are repetitive. Jesus is the proactrive one breaking through the barriers (18:16, 18:40, 19:40, 19:45)
There is a very obvious parallel with the story of the tax collector praying at the temple, children coming to Jesus, and the rich ruler. These stories seem to have been clustered together to illustrate various angles of the People coming into relationship with God. A stark contrast exists between Zacchaeus and the rich ruler: wealth, but response to jesus varies considerably, the rich ruler who is very devout - fails to take the step he must. Zacchaeus the fringe member of the crowd, jumps at the slightest chance to have a relationship with Jesus. Much like the tax collector/pharisee story. The children story seems to play it's part by illustrating the point of view, that God invites us in, and we need to jump at the chance.
Much of this idea is contained in the sandwiched passage 18:24-30. "What is impossible with men is possible with God."
Preceding Passage Notes - Chapter 18
v1-8 Parable - Persistant Widow
Common Words
The word “Lord” (19:8) appears in this passage (v6)
Summary – The Lord is quick to offer justice for those who ask. But Jesus laments in v8 “Will he find faith at His coming”
Similar Themes – Injustice: unjust judge/crowd preventing Zacchaeus from seeing Jesus. Hasty Deliverance: willingness of God to offer justice/willingness of Jesus to offer himself
v9-14 Parable – Pharisee and Tax Collector
Common Words
The word “house” (19:5) appears in this passage (v14)
The word “sinner” (19:7) appears in this passage (v13)
The word “stood” (19:8) appears in this passage twice (v11,13)
Summary – Contrast of two types of people, those who do not see need for mercy, those that are very aware of their need for mercy. Mercy comes to those who ask.
Similar Themes – Tax Collector is mentioned in both, a very obvious parallel. Both are justified. Standing far off (a type of barrier - self imposed, or imposed by temple law?): Zacchaeus climbs a tree, a place that is removed from the center of the throng, but the only real place where he has access to seeing Jesus. The tax collector in the parable has to stand away from the temple, and is fearful (or excluded from?) of approaching.
v15-17 The Little Children and Jesus
Summary – Jesus accepts all groups of people. Jesus calls people to accept the kingdom like a child does.
Similar Themes – Barriers: People prevented children from approaching, the crowd prevented Zacchaeus approaching. Smallness?: Possible linkage of passages through greek word for “short man” (ie Zacchaeus), the word is also used of young age. Maybe an elusion, to the story just told of the children.
v18-30 The Rich Ruler
Common Words
The word “wealthy” (19:2) appears in this passage twice (v23, 25)
The word “poor” (19:8) appears in this passage twice (v22)
The word “save” (19:10) appears in this passage (v26)
Summary – No other gods. Jesus expects full devotion. God will assist in giving the faith required.
Similar Themes – Giving up possessions: Zacchaeus as a response to Jesus acceptance of him, devoted himself fully, in contrast to the rich ruler.
v31-34 Jesus Predicts His Death
Summary – Jesus tells disciples of the impending persecution and death, disciples do not understand.
Similar Themes – none?
v35-43 Miracle – Blind Begger Receives Sight
Common Words
The word “stood” (19:8) appears in this passage (v40)
The word “Lord” (19:8) appears in this passage (v41)
The word “save” (19:10) appears in this passage (v42)
Summary – Beggar shouts to Jesus for mercy. Jesus stops and heals him. Man follows Jesus.
Similar Themes – LORD!: the beggar and Zacchaeus both use the term, which defines themselves as Jesus ‘possession’. Barrier: the crowd tells the beggar to be quiet, Zacchaeus is physically barred from Jesus, both overcome it regardless; the beggar shouts, Zacchaeus climbs a tree and is visible.
Following Passage Notes - Chapter 19:11-48
v11-27 Parable – Ten Minas
Common Words
The title “Lord” (19:8) appears in this passage 4 times (v16, 18, 20, 25)
The word “give” (19:8) appears in this passage 5 times (v13, 15, 23, 24, 26)
Summary – God seeks people who will do his will. Judgment is coming for those who do not.
Similar Themes – Money: wealth is talked about. Zacchaeus is wealthy, servants are given wealth. In both, what they did with the money is key to understanding the passage.
v28-44 Jesus Entry to Jerusalem
Common Words
The word “crowd” (19:3) appears in this passage (v39)
The word “gladly/joyfully” (19:6) appears in this passage (v37)
The title “Lord” (19:8) appears in this passage 4 times (v31, 33, 34, 38)
Summary – Jesus prepares for entry to the Holy city. Followers of Jesus sing the Psalm 118, (at least verses of), Jesus is told to silence the people, but he refuses. Jesus weeps for the city (nation?).
Similar Themes – Barrier: Zacchaeus is barred from Jesus presence, the pharisees try to silence the crowd. Giving: (at a stretch?) Zacchaeus gives money away, colt is given to the Lord’s service.
v45-48 Jesus Drives out the Money Changers at the Temple
Common Words
The word “house” (19:5, 9) appears in this passage (v46)
The word “seek” (19:10) appears in this passage (v47)
The word “what was lost/kill/destroy” (19:10) appears in this passage (v47)
Summary – Jesus goes to the temple, and throws out the money changers. He teaches at the temple, and people ‘hung on his words’.
Similar Themes – Barrier: Zacchaeus is barred from Jesus presence, the temple is occupied by corrupt merchants, extorting money for access to the temple/sacrifice? Complaint: The crowd dislikes Jesus welcoming Zacchaeus, the chief priests etc dislike Jesus teaching at the temple.
the king of the Hill
1. Structural Diagram
2. Surrounding Context
3. Key Cross References
4. Key Questions
5. Thoughts and Meditation
posted by MinnesotaAussie @ 10/23/2004 09:57:00 PM
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