New Testament · Jesus
Zacchaeus Bible Story
A short children's retelling of Zacchaeus, the tax collector who climbed a tree to see Jesus.
Short Bible Story Preview
Zacchaeus was a tax collector in Jericho. Many people disliked him because tax collectors often took more than they should. When Jesus came through the city, Zacchaeus wanted to see him but could not see over the crowd.
He climbed a sycamore tree. Jesus stopped, looked up, and called him by name. Jesus chose to stay at his house, and that kindness changed Zacchaeus' heart.
Zacchaeus promised to give to the poor and repay anyone he had cheated. Jesus said salvation had come to that house. The story shows children that meeting Jesus changes how we treat others.
Artwork in This Story
Jesus and Zacchaeus
- Artist
- Evelyn Stuart Hardy
- Date
- late 19th-early 20th century
- Source
- MeisterDrucke / public-domain biblical illustration Source
- Rights
- Public domain artwork reproduction; verify image vendor terms before commercial deployment
The tree and crowded street make the story instantly legible: Zacchaeus is small, curious, and unexpectedly seen by Jesus.
Key Lesson
When Jesus welcomes us, our hearts and actions begin to change.
Parent Questions
- Why did Zacchaeus climb a tree?
- How did Jesus surprise him?
- What did Zacchaeus decide to do?
- How can kindness help someone change?
