Squared Away With Others

TEXT: Luke 19:1-10

There are few, indeed, who are called from a sinful life who do not have restitutions to make. Some would tell us that when we are saved, God forgives our past and we can forget it. However, Scripture reveals that if we have in any way wronged our fellowman, God expects us to make this right. His Spirit will surely bring to mind the things for which we need to make amends. Restitution covers not only repayment of what may have been taken of monetary value, but also making right such things as lying, cheating, backbiting, and hatred.

QUESTIONS

1. Why do you think the Spirit of God inspired Luke to include the story of Zacchaeus? Surely there were many more dramatic incidents that could have been recorded.
2. Zacchaeus was a chief among the publicans (tax collectors) for the Roman government. Such men were usually Romans, but Zacchaeus, who was a Jew, probably represented the Jews in Jericho. As chief, he would have been the one who sold the privilege of collecting taxes to the highest bidders. In turn, these men could add as much of a commission as they could collect. Zacchaeus no doubt started his career as one of these tax collectors, and was not held in any regard by the Jews. Which verse in our text establishes the fact that Zacchaeus’ poor reputation was known by those in Jericho?
3. What was required of a person bringing a trespass offering under the Mosaic Law? See Leviticus 6:2-7.
4. Restitution obviously played an important part in obtaining forgiveness under the Mosaic Law. What part does it have in obtaining forgiveness in our time?
5. Explain in your own words the meaning of the key verse.
6. What evidence do we have that Zacchaeus, in his heart, met the required conditions spoken of in the key verse?
7. Why is it as important to make a small restitution as it is a large one?
8. What happens if we refuse to make a restitution?
9. What are some of the benefits that might be received as a result of making a restitution?