# Zaccheus explained — Olney Hymns

> Chapter companion for Olney Hymns by John Newton.

## What happens

The poem recounts the story of Zaccheus, who climbed a tree to see Jesus and was surprised when Jesus called him down, revealing his power and knowledge. It illustrates how the gospel can reach sinners unexpectedly, bringing conviction and then joy when Jesus becomes their guest.

## Themes in this chapter

### Grace and Unmerited Favor

Jesus' willingness to dine with Zaccheus, a sinner, demonstrates unmerited favor.

### Human Sinfulness and Depravity

Zaccheus's long-forgotten faults and secret thoughts are brought to light, showing human sinfulness.

## Character check-ins

### Zaccheus

Climbed the tree to see Jesus, was called down, and received Jesus into his home.

### Jesus Christ

Called Zaccheus by name, revealing his divine knowledge and grace.

## Key lines

> I Zaccheus climb’d the tree, And thought himself unknown; But how surprised was he When Jesus call’d him down!

Zaccheus climbed the tree thinking he was hidden, but was astonished when Jesus called him down.

_Highlights Jesus' omniscience and personal call._

> The word directly speaks to them, And seems to point them out by name.

The preached word speaks directly to sinners, as if naming them personally.

_Illustrates the convicting power of the gospel._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters/107-zaccheus
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters