Well might the evangelist usher in the
relation of this man's conversion with the word “behold!” For, according to
human judgment, how many insurmountable obstacles lay in the way of it! Surely
no one will say there was any fitness in Zaccheus for salvation; for we are
told that he was a Publican, and therefore in all probability a notorious
sinner. The Publicans were gatherers of the Roman taxes; they were infamous for
their abominable extortion; their very name therefore became so odious, that we
find the Pharisees often reproached our Lord, as very wicked, because he was a
friend unto and sat down to meat with them. Zaccheus then, being a Publican,
was no doubt a sinner; and, being chief among the Publicans, consequently was
chief among sinners. Nay, “he was rich.” One inspired apostle has told us, that
“not many mighty, not many noble are called.” Another saith, “God has chosen
the poor of this world, rich in faith.” And he who was the Maker and Redeemer
of the apostles, assures us, “that it is easier for a camel, (or cable-rope) to
go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom
of God.” Let not therefore the rich glory in the multitude of their riches.
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