Podcasts about Zacchaeus

What would happen if God showed up in our town? Zacchaeus' life was changed, showing Jesus' redeeming power. In this message, Pastor Lutzer discusses how Jesus moves us from radical confession, to conversion, to being commissioned. When we're changed by Jesus, we can't help but share the good news with others.  This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://offerrtw.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

Following Jesus is not a self improvement project where spiritual fruit exists only to make our own lives easier. In “For Him. For Them.,” Part 10 of From the Vine, Pastor Josh Hersey teaches from John 15 that the work of a disciple is not to force fruit, but to abide in Jesus. When we remain connected to the Vine, His patience, love, generosity, and compassion begin to flow through us for the good of the people around us. Through the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19, we see that Jesus seeks people others overlook, calls them by name, and brings salvation into places religious people may avoid. This Christian sermon explores what it means to love people sacrificially, share your faith without having every answer, tell your testimony, identify your “plus one,” and let your light shine through practical acts of service. No one is too far gone for Jesus, and every follower of Christ has someone they can love, serve, invite, and point toward Him. Have you ever wondered what it means to abide in Christ, how to share the gospel naturally, or how to reach someone who is close to you but far from God? This message offers a biblical and practical answer. Who is your plus one, and what step can you take to help them experience the hope and love of Jesus?   New here or made a decision to follow Jesus today? We would love to connect with you. Fill out our digital connection card: https://churchontherock.net/connect-card  

What would happen if God showed up in our town? Zacchaeus' life was changed, showing Jesus' redeeming power. In this message, Pastor Lutzer discusses how Jesus moves us from radical confession, to conversion, to being commissioned. When we're changed by Jesus, we can't help but share the good news with others.  To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1407/29?v=20251111

Esta semana nos acompaña Shawn Boyd y nos enseña sobre la historia de Zaqueo. Mensaje basado en Lucas 19: 1-10This Week Shawn Boyd joins us to teach us about the story of Zacchaeus. Message based on Luke 19: 1-10 To discover more messages of hope, go to tallowood.org/sermons/.Follow us on X and YouTube @tallowoodbcFollow us on Instagram @tallowood.baptistFollow us on FaceBook @tallowoodbaptist

Zacchaeus, The repentant Tax Collector July 19 2026 - Jay Atkins - Sunday, July 19, 2026

This episode, reveals God's love for everyone and Jesus readiness to embrace sinners whom the society considered unworthy of His embrace

Encountering Jesus revolutionizes our hearts and even our cities. In Jericho, Jesus met the chief tax collector, Zacchaeus. In this message, Pastor Lutzer shows parallels between Zacchaeus' transformation and recent spiritual awakenings. A true movement of God brings an entire community to its knees. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://offerrtw.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

Encountering Jesus revolutionizes our hearts and even our cities. In Jericho, Jesus met the chief tax collector, Zacchaeus. In this message, Pastor Lutzer shows parallels between Zacchaeus' transformation and recent spiritual awakenings. A true movement of God brings an entire community to its knees. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1407/29?v=20251111

It doesn't matter how you started—what matters is what happens when Jesus calls your name. In this episode, we walk through Luke 19:1–9 and the story of Zacchaeus to discover how curiosity leads to faith, perseverance brings us closer to Christ, and God's grace transforms us from the inside out. No matter your past, Jesus already knows your name and is inviting you into a new life. The question is: Will you answer His call?

What if the greatest barrier to your healing isn't your pain—but your hiding? In this powerful message from the RENEWED series, we explore the story of the man with the shriveled hand in Mark 3 and discover that we all have "hidden hands"—places of grief, shame, fear, disappointment, addiction, church hurt, or brokenness we've learned to conceal. While the world often judges what's hidden, Jesus always moves toward it with compassion and grace. Through Scripture, you'll see a consistent pattern: from Adam and Eve, to the woman at the well, Zacchaeus, and Thomas, Jesus continually calls people out of hiding and into His marvelous light—not to expose them, but to restore them. Healing doesn't begin when we become stronger; it begins when we trust Jesus enough to stop pretending. If you've been carrying hidden pain or wondering if God can truly heal the places no one else sees, this message is an invitation to step into the light. Because healing begins where hiding ends, and the Light has a name—Jesus.

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Zacchaeus' story reminds us that beneath every pursuit of success, security, or approval is a deeper longing to be fully known and fully accepted. While the world teaches us to earn our worth through achievement, Jesus meets us with grace before we've proven anything. His acceptance is not a reward for repentance but the very thing that makes transformation possible. As we receive the love of Christ, we are freed from hiding behind our accomplishments or our failures and invited into a new way of being human, one marked by humble dependence on God and the same generous grace extended to others.

Romans 2:24 (NLT) – “No wonder the scriptures say, ‘The Gentiles blaspheme the name of God because of you.'”   In this episode of Daily Devotions, Pastor David Sumrall discusses the reality that our personal lifestyle choices directly impact God's reputation in the world. He challenges believers to consider how their daily actions, words, and integrity reflect on the “family name” of God, warning that a life inconsistent with the Gospel can cause others to blaspheme or reject the message of Christ.   Pastor Sumrall explains that while we celebrate the principles of grace and mercy, our lifestyle remains a powerful testimony to those around us. By following the example of Zacchaeus, who cared so much for Jesus' name that he made public restitution for his sins. We are encouraged to let our choices reflect a sincere love and respect for our Savior. ---- Don't forget to like, subscribe to Cathedral of Praise TV https://www.youtube.com/c/cathedralofpraiseTV/?sub_confirmation=1,and hit the bell icon

Pastor Chris LehmannSupport the show

The Rich Ruler and Zacchaeus the Tax Collector provide two contrasting ways to approach Jesus with our material wealth. This mini-series will explore both.

The words spoken to you can leave wounds that last for years—but they don't have to define your future. This powerful message from guest speaker Pastor Micah Stephens explores how words have the power to shape our identity, influence our relationships, and even change the direction of our lives. Through the stories of Zacchaeus, the Samaritan woman, and Peter, we discover that while hurtful words can leave lasting scars, Jesus always has the final word. In this message, you'll discover: • Why words have the power to build up or tear down • How Jesus replaces shame with truth and healing • What to do with the lies you've believed about yourself • How God's Word reshapes your identity • Why the words you speak matter more than you realize No matter what has been spoken over you—or what you've spoken over yourself—God's truth is greater. His words bring life, freedom, and healing because words don't just communicate... they create worlds. ⛪ ABOUT GO CHURCH GO Church exists to love people to life by helping people take their next step with Jesus. With multiple locations and an online campus, GO Church is a place where you can grow in your faith, build meaningful relationships, and discover your purpose.

How can God use me? Do you ask yourself this question sometimes? In this Heartbeat Rosemary shares about the story of Zacchaeus and how God uses our gifts for good sometimes even years beforehand. 

The words spoken to you can leave wounds that last for years—but they don't have to define your future. This powerful message from guest speaker Pastor Micah Stephens explores how words have the power to shape our identity, influence our relationships, and even change the direction of our lives. Through the stories of Zacchaeus, the Samaritan woman, and Peter, we discover that while hurtful words can leave lasting scars, Jesus always has the final word. In this message, you'll discover: • Why words have the power to build up or tear down • How Jesus replaces shame with truth and healing • What to do with the lies you've believed about yourself • How God's Word reshapes your identity • Why the words you speak matter more than you realize No matter what has been spoken over you—or what you've spoken over yourself—God's truth is greater. His words bring life, freedom, and healing because words don't just communicate... they create worlds. ⛪ ABOUT GO CHURCH GO Church exists to love people to life by helping people take their next step with Jesus. With multiple locations and an online campus, GO Church is a place where you can grow in your faith, build meaningful relationships, and discover your purpose.

Could one encounter with Jesus change everything? In this message, Pastor Nate Nupanga teaches through the story of Jesus and Zacchaeus, showing how God's grace reaches every person and transforms lives with new purpose and hope.

When the scandalous grace of Jesus impacts us in our soul, it gets exemplified outwardly in our generosity in all ways towards others and with God.Luke 19:1-10Reverend Dr. Matt LakeJuly 12, 2026

Matlock & WirksworthPodcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/354059/episodes/19481103-matlcok-12-07-26-zaccheus-lost-found-neal-garratt.mp3Zacchaeus meets Jesus I want to spend just a few moments to put this story into context – One of the main themes of Luke's gospel is that Jesus welcomes sinners /lost people– he doesn't reject them, even though the scribes and pharisees could not understand this – they thought their works would be enough for Jesus but Jesus always looks at the heart and seeks to restore peoples heart to him – no matter their sin or shame! This is good news for those Jesus meets in his earthly ministry and good news for us as well!Luke 15 vs 2 – “Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach. This made the Pharisees and teachers of the religious law complain that he was associating with such sinful people- even eating with them”This is the background and before we meet Zacchaeus in chapter 19 Jesus has  told the stories of the lost sheep, the lost coin, the prodigal son and in chapter 18 the parable of the pharisee and the tax collector and the rich young ruler – Jesus seeking lost and sinful people - and then we meet ZacchaeusLuke 19 vs 1-10 Zacchaeus was despised by the Jews as he was a tax collector for the Romans as was Matthew and he was in fact the chief tax collector – The jews viewed tax collectors as traitors to the Jewish community and in fact were viewed as “robbers”. Luke also says that Zacchaeus was wealthy and how did he become wealthy? By taking advantage of those people whose taxes he collected and making himself money on the side – he was corrupt there is no doubt about that! He was the last person that Jesus should have been associating with and yet Jesus invites himself for tea!Vs 7 But the people were displeased – “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner they grumbled”You see the problem was they had completely misunderstood Jesus ministry on earth which he reveals in vs 10“ For the son of man came to seek and save those who are lost” This is so important – we are ALL lost spiritually until Jesus Christ finds us –Dictionary definition of lost “ spiritually or physically doomed or destroyed “lost souls”This is us and what's the opposite of lost? FOUND – we have been found by Christ Luke 15 vs 6 “ When he arrives, he will call together his friends and neighbours saying “ Rejoice with me because I have found my lost  sheep”Luke 15 vs 9 “And when she find its (the lost coin) she will call together her friends and neighbours and say “ Rejoice with me because I have found my lost coin”Luke 15 vs 24 “ for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was LOST but now he is FOUND” So the party began”This is so important – was Zacchaeus lost – YES – But Jesus found him – salvation came to his house that very afternoon!Ephesians chapter 2 explains our position before we meet JesusVs 1 – You are spiritually dead in your sins – Vs 4 – BUT GOD – is so rich in mercy, and he loves us so much that even though we were dead – he gave us LIFE when he raised Jesus from the deadVs 8-9 “ God saved you by his grace when you believed and you can't take credit for this it is a gift from God- Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done , so none of us  can boast about it”The world is quick to condemn -  but Jesus is quick to forgive! So Jesus visits Zacchaeus house and Zacchaeus is convicted of his sin and saysVs 8-9 “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes I will give them back four times as much and Jesus responds Salvation has come to this home today”The conviction of our sin or our position before Christ is a ministry of the Holy SpiritJohn 16 vs 7-8Jesus says this “But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don't, the Advocate won't come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God's righteousness”There has to be conviction of our sin before a Holy God – that we are lost and need to be found – before salvation comes.Watch Video – Start at 2.03mins inhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6GeGqm4ocg8&t=168sAmazing story of bring lost and then found – this is what happens when The Holy Spirit convicts us of our sin and we realise we need a saviour!Tell the story of Mr Lee – Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners!Zacchaeus was visited by Jesus in his home and yet we have that same invitation every day to walk with JesusRoger – Prophetic word – take my hand and walk with me every day – so goodLamentations 3 vs 22-26“The faithful love of the Lord never ends – His mercies never cease – Great is his faithfulness – his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself The Lord is my inheritance therefore I will hope in him – The Lord is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him. So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the Lord”Jesus wants to find and rescue you this morning – He doesn't care what you have done – how bad you have been – what you are carrying – Lost people have a lot of baggage- but he is here to find you, rescue you and pour out his amazing love and grace into your life – you know we all have a moment when we can say “Salvation came to this house today” – why not today for you?Luke 19 vs 1-10Jesus entered Jericho and made his way through the town.There was a man there named Zacchaeus. He was the chief tax collector in the region, and he had become very rich.He tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short to see over the crowd.So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree beside the road, for Jesus was going to pass that way.When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.”Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy.But the people were displeased. “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,” they grumbled.Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!”Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham.For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”

I greet you in Jesus' precious name! It is Saturday morning, the 11th of July, 2026, and this is your friend, Angus Buchan, with a thought for today. We start in the Book of Deuteronomy 19:7: ”Therefore I command you, saying, ‘You shall separate three cities for yourself.” Now what happened here, the Lord in His mercy said, when the Israelites went into a new country, three cities were to be separated so that people who had made an honest mistake can go and hide from those who want to avenge the mistake that he has made.Then we go to the Book of Romans 6:23:”For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” You know folks, I want to say to you that our Lord is such a gracious God. If you read on in that scripture just before Deuteronomy 19:7, you will see that the Lord explains that if a man, for example, is cutting down a tree with his friend and the head of the axe comes off the shaft and hits his friend on the head and kills him, it's an accident. They make these three cities available for people to go and hide so that they are not avenged, and the Lord Himself has made a way through Jesus Christ for you and me to have our sins forgiven. That's why He says, ”The wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” Jesus died on the cross of Calvary so that you and I can live. Yes, the God of the second chance - we made a mistake, He has forgiven us and He's given us an opportunity to continue to live!You know I looked up that beautiful scripture, Luke 7:47: ”He who has been forgiven much, loves Me the most but to whom little is for forgiven, loves Me little.” And I want to tell you something now, we can make mistakes, I've made many myself, but if we come to the Lord with a repentant heart and ask forgiveness, He will make a way for us where there seems to be no way.I don't know how many testimonies I've heard from men who have been restored by the Lord Jesus Christ after making a mistake. What about Zacchaeus, the tax collector? He was an evil man, stealing money from his own people, but Jesus came to his house, had lunch with him and said, ”Your sins are forgiven.” Zacchaeus was so overwhelmed, and the Lord said, ”Salvation has come to this house today.” Not only for Zacchaeus but all his friends, the other tax collectors as well.Today, know one thing, that if you are genuinely repentant, God will give you another opportunity.Jesus bless you and goodbye.

The "sinner's prayer" has become a familiar part of evangelism in many churches. After a gospel message, people are often invited to bow their heads, repeat a prayer, and are then told that if they sincerely meant those words, they have been saved.Many Christians have seen this approach used in youth events, church services, and evangelistic outreaches. But is this the pattern we find in Scripture? Should leading someone in a sinner's prayer be part of our evangelism?The prayer itself is not necessarily the problem. The concern is how it is often used. While there is nothing inherently wrong with expressing faith through prayer, there are several dangers that can arise when the sinner's prayer becomes the focus of evangelism.1. Jesus and the Apostles Never Used ItThe first thing to notice is that neither Jesus nor the apostles used the sinner's prayer as a method of evangelism.Think about Jesus' conversations with Nicodemus, Zacchaeus, and the Samaritan woman. There is no example of Jesus inviting someone to repeat a prayer after Him in order to be saved. Instead, Jesus often challenged people in unexpected ways. He told Nicodemus that he "must be born again," (John 3:3) a statement that left him confused and asking questions. He told the rich young ruler to sell his possessions and give to the poor (Mark 10:21). To the Samaritan woman, He said, "Go, call your husband." (John 4:16).These were not easy responses. Rather, they exposed the condition of each person's heart and showed the impossibility of saving themselves through their own efforts.The same pattern continues in the book of Acts. After Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost, the people asked, "What shall we do?" Peter did not respond by leading them in a prayer. Instead, he called them to "Repent and be baptized...for the forgiveness of your sins" (Acts 2:38). Baptism was the outward expression of repentance and faith. Likewise, the criminal on the cross never prayed a sinner's prayer. He simply said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” - Luke 23:42-43Throughout the New Testament, there is no example of Jesus or the apostles asking someone to repeat a specific prayer in order to receive salvation.2. It Can Become a Ritual Instead of FaithAnother danger is that the sinner's prayer can easily become a ritual. In cultures with strong religious traditions, many people are accustomed to thinking that performing the right ritual brings them closer to God. It is easy for the sinner's prayer to become just another religious act. Instead of trusting Christ, people may begin trusting that they said the correct words. Many believers can remember wondering, "Did I pray it correctly?" or "Did I say the right thing?" Those questions reveal that the focus has shifted from faith in Christ to confidence in an action.Our goal in evangelism should always be to lead people to faith, not to confidence in a religious ritual.3. It Can Minimize Repentance and FaithWhen Jesus began His ministry, His message was clear: Repent and believe - Mark 1:15These two responses appear repeatedly throughout the New Testament. Repentance is more than simply acknowledging that we are sinners or repeating a prayer. It is a change of heart that turns from unbelief to faith in Christ. It is recognizing who God is, understanding our sinful condition, and turning to Christ in faith.As J.D. Greear writes in Stop Asking Jesus into Your Heart:Repentance is not simply praying a prayer that acknowledges our sinfulness and asks for forgiveness. Nor is it walking an aisle, signing a card, or giving a public testimony. Repentance is not fundamentally a motion of the hands, mouth or feet. It is a motion of the heart in which we abandon our posture of rebellion and adopt one of submission toward Christ.Charles Spurgeon also described repentance as a true change of mind that includes the Holy Spirit's work of exposing sin and producing hatred for it. When evangelism centers primarily on getting someone to pray, repentance can easily become an outward action instead of an inward change of heart.4. It Can Oversimplify the GospelAnother concern is that the sinner's prayer can reduce the gospel to a few memorized phrases.The message of Christ is rich and deep. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus taught the same gospel, but He approached different people from different angles, applying God's truth to their specific circumstances. Good evangelism does the same.Rather than rushing someone to repeat a prayer, we should help them understand who God is, who they are before Him, and how the gospel speaks directly to the deepest problems of life. The better we know the gospel ourselves, the better equipped we will be to explain its richness and apply it to the people we are speaking with.5. It Can Give False AssurancePerhaps the greatest danger is giving someone assurance of salvation before there is genuine faith.Many people remember raising a hand, walking forward at a meeting, or praying a prayer years ago. Yet when asked about the gospel, they show little understanding of who Christ is or what He has done. Their confidence rests in an event rather than in Christ Himself.One example came during an outreach to disabled refugees in Odesa. Many of those attending had backgrounds in New Age beliefs or spiritism and did not yet have a clear understanding of the gospel. At the end of the meeting, a guest speaker asked everyone who wanted to go to heaven to raise their hand. Most of the room responded, and they were immediately assured that they were saved.Experiences like this demonstrate why we should be careful. The gospel often takes time for people to understand. Rather than giving quick assurance based on an outward response, we should patiently teach the gospel and encourage people to place their faith in Christ alone.Is the Sinner's Prayer Wrong?None of this means the sinner's prayer itself is wrong. A prayer that includes confession, repentance, and faith can be a perfectly appropriate response to the gospel. The problem is not the prayer itself, but believing that the prayer is what saves.Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ—not through repeating certain words.When someone demonstrates genuine faith and a clear understanding of the gospel, praying together can be a wonderful way for that person to confess their faith to God. But the prayer should express the faith that already exists; it should never become a substitute for it.As we share the gospel, may our focus remain where Scripture places it: calling people to genuine repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, while carefully avoiding anything that could lead them to trust in a ritual rather than in the Savior.

When Jesus comes to town, revival often follows. Zacchaeus' life was changed, showing Jesus' redeeming power. In this message, Pastor Lutzer discusses the realities of conversion and commission. When people are convicted of sin and restitution is made, there is true freedom and joy from being right with God.  To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29?v=20251111

When Jesus comes to town, revival often follows. Zacchaeus' life was changed, showing Jesus' redeeming power. In this message, Pastor Lutzer discusses the realities of conversion and commission. When people are convicted of sin and restitution is made, there is true freedom and joy from being right with God.  This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

Encountering Jesus revolutionizes our hearts and even our cities. In Jericho, Jesus met the chief tax collector, Zacchaeus. In this message, Pastor Lutzer shows how curiosity about Christ leads to a moment of confrontation and confession. When Jesus comes to town, we will never be the same. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29?v=20251111

Encountering Jesus revolutionizes our hearts and even our cities. In Jericho, Jesus met the chief tax collector, Zacchaeus. In this message, Pastor Lutzer shows how curiosity about Christ leads to a moment of confrontation and confession. When Jesus comes to town, we will never be the same. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

President Teddy Roosevelt once said, “It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena.” Today, Pastor Richard tells you that there will always be opponents to Jesus and His followers, but what matters is that you put yourself out there for the Lord and proclaim Him. 

In Luke 19:3, Zacchaeus is unable to see Jesus because he is short. Is it possible that the short person in question is Jesus?  Jon C. Laansma is Gerald F. Hawthorne Professor of New Testament Greek & Exegesis and the Director of the Classical Languages program at Wheaton College, and also the Wheaton-based director of this podcast series. Some of his publications may be found here. He is currently working on a commentary on 1 Corinthians for the T&T Clark International Theological Commentary series.   Check out related programs at Wheaton College: B.A. in Classical Languages (Greek, Latin, Hebrew): https://bit.ly/4uOCpV1  M.A. in Biblical Exegesis: https://bit.ly/4uu1Ivc 

There are billions of people on Earth's surface today. The planet is teeming with humans, and it's easy to feel like a drop in the ocean of humanity. But today, Pastor Richard reminds you that God always has time for every individual. He knows every one of the billions of hearts that occupy the world. Maybe you feel forgotten or overlooked, but Pastor Richard tells you that God sees you, hears you, and knows you better than you know yourself. 

“Zacchaeus’ Salvation: A Communion Message” Luke‬ ‭19‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭ESV‬‬ ‭‭Luke‬ ‭19‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭ESV‬‬ ‭‭Luke‬ ‭19‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭ESV‬‬ ‭‭Leviticus‬ ‭6‬:‭1‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬ ‭‭Luke‬ ‭19‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭ESV‬‬ ‭‭Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭14‬-‭20‬ ‭ESV‬‬ 1 Corinthians‬ ‭11‬:‭26‬ ‭ESV‬‬ _____ All music used during this service is reproduction-licensed through the following CCLI Licenses: CCLI Copyright License # 227222 CCLI Streaming Plus License # 22513837 Instrumental Worship By: William Augusto "Soaking in His Presence" www.williamaugusto.com

Many of us have portable phone chargers and don’t leave home without them! We charge the chargers at home so that they can be used to charge our phones while we’re out and about and unable to access a wall outlet. The chargers, having been charged up themselves, have power to pass on to our phones when they need it. In other words, the chargers, along with the cords become conduits of the power needed by devices lacking it. We are conduits of the grace of God. We are meant to have God’s grace flow through us to other people who desperately need it.” As helpful as phone chargers are, they are not the only examples of conduits of a powerful force. As believers, we are meant to be conduits as well. Rather than channels for electricity to flow through, we are conduits of the grace of God. We are meant to have God’s grace flow through us to other people who desperately need it. When we do this, we are following the example set by Jesus. In this session, Jesus demonstrates His care and concern for a person who is different, a social outcast, and is deemed unacceptable and inferior. His willingness to extend grace to this man, Zacchaeus, and so many others should compel us as believers to do the same. The post CONNECTING WITH OTHERS LIKE JESUS DID – Extending Grace (YOU-Sum’26, Study 1, Session 6) appeared first on YOU.

Extracts from our all-age service including our ‘frayed edge' artwork and the story of Zacchaeus.

Why is salvation impossible for us? And what has Jesus done to make it possible?"Jesus Replied, 'What is impossible with man is possible with God.'” — Luke 18:27Today's Episode: Natalie Abbott takes a deep dive into Luke 18 and helps us understand one of Jesus's most hope-filled—and often misunderstood—statements.We often use this verse when life feels difficult or overwhelming. But in its original context, Jesus is talking about something even bigger: salvation. We cannot make ourselves right with God. We cannot earn his favor or fix our own souls.Natalie walks us through the stories surrounding Luke 18:27, including the Pharisee and the tax collector, the rich ruler, and Zacchaeus. You'll be reminded that salvation is not something we achieve through good behavior, hard work, or religious effort. It is the impossible gift God has made possible through Jesus.This Month's Memory Verse:"Jesus replied, 'What is impossible with man is possible with God.''

This week we continue our Road Trip With Jesus. On the road to Jericho, we encounter a man named Zacchaeus who was deeply changed when he saw Jesus. What is keeping you from seeing Jesus? We'll ask this question and look at how meeting Jesus changes things.

Zacchaeus did not have very many friends. Mostly because he wasn't very friendly. But one day he met Jesus and all of that changed! Join Arlo, Kelby, and Tilly as they learn all about Zacchaeus.

This message challenges us to rethink what hospitality truly means in the biblical sense. While our culture often reduces hospitality to aesthetic surroundings, nice candles, and clean homes, Scripture calls us to something far deeper: creating spaces where people feel welcomed, seen, and can encounter Jesus. The story of Zacchaeus beautifully illustrates this radical hospitality. Here was a man despised by his community, a tax collector who exploited his own people, yet Jesus called him by name and invited himself to his home. Jesus didn't wait for Zacchaeus to clean up his act first. He offered relationship before repentance, demonstrating that true hospitality is a heart posture, not a physical circumstance. The Greek word used for hospitality in 1 Peter literally means loving strangers, loving those different from us. This includes the neighbor with the opposing political yard sign, the barista who messed up our order, even the rival sports fan. When we practice this kind of costly hospitality, we become hotspots connecting others to the love of God. The transformation in Zacchaeus's life reminds us that our willingness to welcome others, even when inconvenient, could be the very thing Jesus uses to change someone's eternity.

Pastor Patrick Austin opens by pointing out that while we live in a $16 billion home security Market — a world full of people desperate to protect their stuff — we are also surrounded by people who are perfectly comfortable taking what doesn't belong to them. But before we point the finger at the burglar or the carjacker, Pastor Patrick brings us back to the garden, where Adam and Eve stole the very first fruit, setting in motion a pattern of sin that runs through every human heart. Theft, he reminds us, goes far deeper than an outward action. It shows up in cheating, in wasted time at work, in gambling, in the pornography industry that fuels modern-day slavery, and at the root of every sin we commit. When we steal, we are essentially telling God, "You have failed to provide for me" — the same lie the enemy whispered to Adam and Eve in the garden. But the eighth commandment doesn't just expose the problem — it points us to the solution. Through the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19, Pastor Patrick shows us a man who had everything the world said he needed and was still empty, still seeking. And Jesus, rather than wagging His finger at this broken, despised thief, walks straight to his tree, calls him by name, and says, "I must stay at your house today." Jesus pursues broken thieves. He takes their place on the cross — literally crucified between two robbers — and He transforms them. Zacchaeus walked away from that encounter giving half his goods to the poor and repaying fourfold everyone he had wronged. That is the evidence of a transformed life: greed gives way to faithful stewardship and generous giving. WE'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! Take a moment to fill out our digital connection card here: https://www.bayleaf.org/connect We hope you enjoy this programming and please let us know if there is anything we can do to be of service to you. ONE CHURCH. TWO LOCATIONS. ONE MISSION. Bay Leaf at Falls Lake: 12200 Bayleaf Church Road, Raleigh, North Carolina 27614 Bay Leaf at 540: 10921 Leesville Rd, Raleigh, NC 27613 SERVICE TIMES Come join us on Sundays at Bay Leaf at Falls Lake (8:30 AM or 11:00 AM) or at Bay Leaf at 540 (10:00 AM) CONTACT www.bayleaf.org (919) 847-4477 #BayLeafLife #Worship #Inspiration

kids will learn that lament is a type of prayer where we honestly talk to God about things that feel hard, hurtful, sad, or wrong. ⭐ What Kids Will Learn:

What if the most overlooked passage in Romans holds one of its most powerful truths? Romans 16 reads like a simple list of names—26 people we've never heard of, immortalized in Scripture for reasons that aren't immediately clear. But when we dig deeper, we discover something profound: these aren't just credits at the end of a movie. These are real people with real lives, real struggles, and real faith that changed the world. From Phoebe, entrusted with carrying the precious letter of Romans across dangerous terrain, to Priscilla and Aquila, who risked their lives and opened their home for the church in hostile Rome, to Rufus, whose father Simon carried Jesus' cross—each name tells a story of sacrifice, diversity, and unity in Christ. What emerges is a beautiful picture of the early church: slaves teaching masters, women serving as deacons, Jews and Gentiles working side by side, wealthy and poor united in purpose. The central message challenges us today: Are we building the same kind of diverse, sacrificial, loving community? Would we risk our homes, our comfort, our status for the gospel? And most importantly, do we recognize that God knows each of us by name, just as intimately as He knew these 26 saints? This passage reminds us that God is both infinitely big—breathing out stars—and intimately personal, numbering the hairs on our heads and calling us each by name.**Detailed Notes**- **All Scripture Matters** – 2 Tim. 3:16–17   - All Scripture is God‑breathed and profitable, even “just a list of names” in Romans 16.   - The Spirit intentionally preserved these 26 names to teach us.- **Phoebe (Rom. 16:1–2)**   - Sister, servant (diakonos / deacon), patron (financial supporter).   - Likely carried the only copy of Romans from Corinth to Rome—dangerous, costly, yet faithful.   - Deacons = lead servants; trusted with people, money, and needs.- **Priscilla & Aquila (16:3–5; Acts 18; 2 Tim. 4:19)**   - Fellow workers; risked their necks for Paul; hosted a church in their home.   - Forced out of Rome; everywhere they went, they planted churches.   - Viewed exile and hardship as mission, not punishment.   - Tentmaking friendship with Paul likely began through ordinary vocational contact.   - Lifelong, harmonious partners in ministry.- **Epaenetus (16:5)**   - First convert in Asia; Paul still knows his name and story.   - Firstfruits of a Gentile harvest.- **Andronicus & Junia (16:7)**   - Kinsmen, fellow prisoners, in Christ before Paul, well known among the apostles.   - Likely family Paul once persecuted; powerful testimony of grace and reconciliation.   - Example of costly obedience (imprisonment, suffering).- **Ampliatus & Others (16:8ff)**   - Likely former slave who rose to church leadership.   - Early church mixed slave/free, male/female, Jew/Greek, rich/poor—fulfilling Gal. 3:28.   - Masters sometimes sat under teaching of their slaves; the kingdom inverts status.- **Rufus & His Mother (16:13; Mark 15:21)**   - Probably the son of Simon of Cyrene who carried Jesus' cross.   - Simon's forced interruption became his family's salvation story.   - Rufus' mother became like a mother to Paul.- **Big Themes from the Names**   - Real people, real costs, real love, real partnership.   - Church as family: greeting, thanking, remembering, honoring.   - Diversity and unity under Christ, not human categories.- **God Knows Your Name (Luke 19:1–10 & Survey of Scripture)**   - Jesus calls Zacchaeus by name; salvation comes to his house.   - God calls individuals by name across Scripture (Adam, Noah, Moses, David, Lazarus, Saul, etc.).   - The Creator who names the stars also numbers the hairs on our heads.   - He has not abandoned or forgotten us; He is personal and near.---**Practical Applications**1. **See Yourself as a “Name” God Knows**    - Pray personally: “Lord, thank You that You know me and my situation.”2. **Embrace Servant Leadership**    - Look for ways to be a “Phoebe” or a deacon‑hearted servant this week—meet a practical need.3. **Open Your Home and Life**    - Consider how your home/resources can serve the kingdom, not just comfort.4. **Pursue Gospel Friendships**    - Initiate one new conversation at church; your “tentmaking” connection may become lifelong partnership.5. **Reject Status & Division**    - Examine prejudice (race, class, gender, education). Repent and intentionally honor someone different from you.---**Discussion Questions**1. Which person in Romans 16 stood out to you most and why?  2. How does knowing that God preserved these “hidden” names affect how you see unnoticed service in the church?  3. Where might God be inviting you to turn a hardship or “exile” into a mission opportunity?  4. In what concrete ways can your home or job become a platform for ministry, like Priscilla and Aquila?  5. How have you personally experienced God's “He knows my name” care?  6. What divisions or hierarchies do you see creeping into the church today, and how can we resist them?

We welcome Rev. Chuck Tedrick to our pulpit this morning. He is the Dean of Students and Director of Alumni Relations at Westminster Seminary in California.IntroductionChrist tells a parable about one of the world's worst prayers, immediately followed by one of the world's most beautiful prayers. The warning is that some trusted in themselves, believing they were righteous, and treated others with contempt.Two men from the same covenant community go to the same temple service. Both stand to pray. Both address God. Yet everything else about their prayers reveals two completely different kinds of people. There is one group that looks to God's grace in Christ alone for salvation. Another group who looks to themself. One represents the humble; the other, the prideful. Christ presents two characters to represent these positions. We would expect the Pharisee to be praised by Christ. We would expect the tax collector to be condemned. However, we see that Christ does the opposite. Why does Christ condemn the hero while exalting the expected villain? The Prideful PrayerThe Pharisee enters the temple with impressive religious credentials. In his day, Pharisees were the most pious, conservative, and scrupulous religious leaders. They took God's law seriously. Tragically, they valued the law, but not the law's giver. His heart is far from God and the Lord's grace. Standing by himself, he prays: "God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get." This is impressive and intimidating. Notice what is missing. He thanks God for nothing. He is not thankful for the Lord's grace that has moved him past previous sins. He does not see God as the giver of his daily provision. He does not see that he needs the Lord's grace and mercy to stand strong. He compares himself to others and finds himself superior. He lists sins he has avoided (theft, adultery, injustice) and works he has exceeded (fasting beyond requirement, giving above the tithe).Notice that he never mentions his own sins: coveting, gossip, envy, impatience, or the self-righteousness and contempt pouring from his heart. He has not loved God with all his heart, soul, mind, and strength, nor has he loved his neighbor as himself. The tragedy is not that he hasn't traveled far enough down the road of good works, but that he is on the wrong road entirely. He travels the "law road" when he needs the "faith road." He tries to justify himself through works when Scripture declares that "by works of the law no one will be justified." He trusts in himself rather than in God's promise.The Humble PrayerThe tax collector represents the opposite extreme of Jewish society. Tax collectors were despised as traitors and thieves. They compromised their Jewish purity by collaborating with Rome. In fact, they extorted money from their own people. His posture is different from that of the previous man. He stands "far off," unable to lift his eyes to heaven, beating his breast in grief. His prayer is devastatingly simple: "God, be merciful to me, a sinner." He knows he needs the Lord's mercy and grace. He knows that he cannot stand on his own. He compares himself to God and finds himself wanting. He recognizes he has nothing to offer. He does not have a righteousness that exceeds that of the scribes and the Pharisees. All he asks for is mercy. He does not have a resume that proves his worthiness. No, he is confronted by the reality that he is a desperate sinner on thin ice. The word he uses for "mercy" is propitiation. This is a traditional word that refers to the turning away of God's wrath through sacrifice. On the Day of Atonement, the high priest would confess sins over a scapegoat sent into the wilderness and sprinkle blood on the mercy seat. This tax collector understands what the Pharisee misses: the wages of sin are death, and we need a substitute.Jesus is that substitute. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. On the cross, He became the propitiation for our sins, enduring the wrath we deserved, and dying in our place. Christ gives the assurance that the tax collector goes home justified. He sees that his redemption and righteousness are outside himself, and he looks to the mercy of God found in Christ.Christ's VerdictJesus delivers a shocking verdict: "I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other."Jesus does not prescribe penance for this man to complete. No "try harder and check back later." The tax collector goes home forgiven, declared righteous, at peace with God. The Pharisee goes home still an enemy of the Lord.Jesus concludes with a kingdom principle that reverses worldly wisdom: "Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted." This is so contrary to the world's order. In the world's economy, self-promotion leads to success. In God's economy, humility leads to exaltation. Justification is a matter of God's mercy, not human merit.Luke immediately gives us proof in the very next chapter. Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector, climbs a tree to see Jesus because he has heard that this Teacher declares even tax collectors forgiven. When Jesus announces, "Today salvation has come to this house," the crowd grumbles: "He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner." But Jesus responds: "The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."ConclusionThis parable serves as both comfort and warning. For those who come to God saying, "Be merciful to me, a sinner," there is immediate justification, peace with God, and the gift of righteousness through faith in Christ alone. For those trusting in their own goodness, religious activity, or moral superiority, there remains judgment. Paul tells us to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. This is a call to examine your own heart. Do you compare yourself to others so that you are thankful you are not "like that person"? Or are you comparing yourself to God's holy standard and finding yourself desperate for grace?Repent and believe. Come to the cross empty-handed, clinging only to Christ. For everyone who humbles himself will be exalted, and everyone who exalts himself will be humbled. The tax collector went home justified. Find your identity and life in Christ rather than yourself.

Commandment #8 reveals that God is after more than behavior—He desires hearts that trust Him completely. Through the story of Zacchaeus, this message explores faithful stewardship, radical generosity, and the freedom that comes from living with an abundance mindset rooted in God's grace.

The first time I ever heard the word tithing, I watched a guest preacher publicly shame two guys at the altar of a small Florida church for not doing it consistently. They walked back to their seats with their heads down. I never forgot it. Linda has a different shame story — quiet, private, ten years long, all over a single tithe she felt led to give to friends going on a mission trip instead of her local church. Two completely different shame stories, same root system. Both deadly to generosity. In this episode, we finally do the conversation we've sidestepped for almost two decades. We get into the difference between condemnation and conviction, why we treat tithing the same way we treat Sabbath, and the moment we corrected our giving and got a raise the very next day that exactly covered the gap. This is not a shame episode. It's not a license episode either. It's where we've actually landed. And If you enjoyed this, we'd love to send you a free copy of our book — you just cover shipping. It has over 1,000 5-star reviews on Amazon. Grab it at seedtime.com/free.   WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE Here's a little of what we cover in this episode: The altar-shaming Bob watched as a brand-new Christian (and what it did to his view of giving) The 10-year guilt cycle Linda carried over a single tithe she gave to the "wrong" place Why condemnation comes from the enemy and conviction comes from God (and how to tell which is which) The Sabbath analogy that finally helped us land somewhere honest Why both shame and license are wrong (and what 2 Corinthians 9:7 actually says) Where to start if 10% feels impossible right now   BIBLE VERSES MENTIONED Matthew 7 (referenced — "if your eye causes you to sin") Genesis 14 (Abraham and Melchizedek, referenced) Genesis 22 (Abraham, "God will provide" / Jehovah Jireh) 2 Corinthians 8-9 (referenced as a giving framework) 2 Corinthians 9:7 Galatians 3:13 (referenced — "redeemed from the curse of the law") John 8 (the woman caught in adultery, referenced) Luke 19 (Zacchaeus, referenced) Hebrews (Jesus as high priest in the order of Melchizedek, referenced)   RESOURCES MENTIONED True Financial Freedom (church curriculum) → seedtime.com/true   DISCLAIMER Obligatory legal disclaimer: I'm a financial educator, not your financial advisor, investment advisor, tax pro, or lawyer. This channel is for general education, not personalized advice, and nothing here should be taken as a recommendation to buy, sell, or use any specific investment, account, or financial product. I'm just sharing what I'm doing, what I'm learning, and what I find interesting. Markets can be humbling. Investing involves risk, including the risk of losing money, and my results are personal, may not be typical, and are not guaranteed. Do your own research, use wisdom, and talk with a qualified professional before making financial decisions. Some links are to our resources and some are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. That helps keep the lights on around here, so thanks for the support.

We're covering a lot of ground today! With Aaron out of town the next two weeks, we're previewing not only this Sunday, but June 21 and 28. We also cover Pride celebrations in Batavia and Dundee, reflecting on the nature of welcome and the challenge of unity and diversity in the Fox Valley. In Batavia, we're got three new stories: "A Church for All," "I'll Love You Forever," and "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day," which will shape our next three weeks. In Dundee, we've got at least two stories to focus on: that of Zacchaeus and the other of the "rich young ruler." What happens when we say yes to Jesus and our life changes? What happens when we say no and it doesn't? Thanks for your patience while we're away for two weeks. See you soon!

Every June, Christians seem to fall into one of two camps.Some charge into the culture war with anger and condemnation.Others stay silent and avoid the conversation altogether.But what did Jesus actually do?In this video, we examine Scripture—not social media—and look directly at how Jesus engaged people who were living in sin. From the woman at the well, to the woman caught in adultery, to Zacchaeus, a clear pattern emerges:Jesus moved toward people.Jesus treated them with dignity.Jesus spoke truth.Jesus offered hope.We'll examine Romans 1, 1 Corinthians 6, Genesis, Luke 15, John 4, John 8, Luke 19, and other key passages to answer one question:What should a Christ-centered response to Pride Month actually look like?Whether you're a Christian, skeptical of Christianity, or someone who has been hurt by the church, this conversation is for you.Subscribe for more biblical truth, apologetics, culture, and faith discussions.#PrideMonth #Jesus #Christianity #LGBTQ #BibleStudy #TruthBehindTheMikeChapter List:00:00 What Does Jesus Say About Pride Month?01:36 The Two Mistakes Christians Make05:52 What the Bible Says About Homosexuality06:21 Romans 1 Explained08:33 1 Corinthians 6 Explained09:55 God's Design for Marriage10:45 How Jesus Treated People in Sexual Sin11:10 The Woman at the Well13:01 The Woman Caught in Adultery15:01 Zacchaeus and Radical Grace16:21 A Biblical Response to Pride Month17:34 Why Many People Don't Trust the Church18:40 The Mission of the Church19:04 If You've Been Hurt by Christians20:14 Jesus Chose Neither Side20:48 Truth Behind the MikeSend us Fan MailSupport the showWatch these podcasts on YouTube!Follow Us!YouTube: @behindthemikepodcastInstagram: @behindthemikepodcastTikTok:  @behind_the_mike_podcastFacebook:  @behindthemikepodcast