The Calling of Zaccheus

    Zaccheus is to be brought to the knowledge of Christ: mark how the Providence of God puts him in the way of being effectually called. Jesus is in the place where this chief of the publicans resided; but so were thousands whom Jesus overlooked. Providentially, however, Zaccheus was singled out from the rest in a remarkable manner. He had an uncommon curiosity to see Jesus, and to have a satisfying view of him. But he was low of stature. Had he been a tall man, he might have gratified his curiosity without notice. Jesus, indeed, could have called him in any way he chose. But he generally did things in a way of Providence. The man was little; and in order to get a full view of Jesus, he climbed up into a tree on the road side. This was the occasion of presenting him to the notice of the Lord Jesus; and in his sovereignty he called him down, in the same style of language in which he called the world into existence. "Zaccheus, make haste and come down; for to-day I must abide at thy house."

    And thousands are led by curiosity, or a worse motive, to hear the gospel, when it becomes to them the means of eternal life. Many preachers upbraid their hearers with the carnal motives which bring them to hear the gospel. This is wrong. It is a proclamation to keep them from coming again. Jesus did not so with Zaccheus. No matter to us what brings sinners to hear the gospel. Let the preacher do his part, which is to commend the truth to every man's conscience in the sight of God.