In the context of the Bible, "Pagans and Tax Collectors" are often mentioned together to illustrate a point about social and religious ostracism, as well as the transformative power of grace and redemption. These terms are used in various passages to convey the attitudes and behaviors that were considered outside the covenant community of Israel and, by extension, the early Christian community.

Pagans

The term "pagan" in the biblical context generally refers to those who are outside the Jewish faith and, by extension, the Christian faith. Pagans were often seen as idolaters, worshiping gods other than the God of Israel. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were repeatedly warned against adopting pagan practices and worshiping foreign gods (Exodus 20:3-5; Deuteronomy 12:29-31). The New Testament continues this theme, urging believers to remain separate from pagan practices and to live lives that reflect their faith in Christ (1 Corinthians 10:20-21; 2 Corinthians 6:14-17).

In the New Testament, Jesus uses the term "pagan" to describe those who do not know God and His ways. In Matthew 6:7, Jesus warns against praying like the pagans, who "heap up empty phrases" thinking they will be heard for their many words. This highlights the difference between a genuine relationship with God and mere ritualistic practices.

Tax Collectors

Tax collectors in the New Testament were often Jews who collected taxes on behalf of the Roman Empire. They were generally despised by their fellow Jews for their collaboration with the occupying forces and for their reputation of extortion and greed. Tax collectors were often lumped together with "sinners" in the Gospels, indicating their low social and moral standing (Matthew 9:10-11; Luke 15:1).

Despite their negative reputation, tax collectors are significant in the Gospels for illustrating the reach of Jesus' ministry and the power of repentance. One of the most notable tax collectors in the New Testament is Zacchaeus, who, upon encountering Jesus, repents and makes restitution for his wrongs (Luke 19:1-10). Jesus' willingness to associate with tax collectors and sinners demonstrates His mission to seek and save the lost, regardless of their social standing.

Pagans and Tax Collectors in Church Discipline

In Matthew 18:15-17, Jesus outlines a process for dealing with sin within the church. If a member refuses to listen to correction, even after multiple attempts, Jesus instructs, "treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector" (Matthew 18:17). This instruction underscores the seriousness of unrepentant sin and the need for maintaining the purity of the church community. However, it also reflects the hope for eventual repentance and restoration, as Jesus Himself reached out to pagans and tax collectors with the message of the Gospel.

Conclusion

The terms "pagans" and "tax collectors" serve as powerful symbols in the biblical narrative, representing those who are outside the covenant community but are not beyond the reach of God's grace. Through Jesus' ministry, these groups are shown to be capable of transformation and inclusion in the Kingdom of God, illustrating the radical nature of the Gospel and the call to love and reach out to all people.