Zacchaeus Climbed the Tree

By John Newton

Lyrics

1. . Zacchaeus climbed the tree
And thought himself unknown,
But how surprised was he
When Jesus called him down!
The Lord beheld him, tho' concealed,
And by a word his pow'r revealed.
2. . Wonder and joy at once
Were painted on his face.
Does he my name pronounce?
And does he know my case?
Will Jesus deign with me to dine?
Lord, I, with all I have, am thine!
3. . Thus where the gospel's preached,
And sinners come to hear,
The hearts of some are reached
Before they are aware;
The word directly speaks to them
And seems to point them out by name.
4. . 'Tis curiosity
Oft brings them in the way
The spectacle to see,
And hear what we can say,
But how the sinners start to find
The Savior knows their inmost mind.
5. . Their long-forgotten faults
Are brought again in view
And all their secret thoughts
Revealed in public, too;
Though compassed with a crowd about,
The searching word has found them out.
6. . While thus distressing pain
And sorrow fills their hearts,
They hear a voice again
That bids their fears depart,
Then like Zacchaeus they are blest,
And Jesus deigns to be their guest.

Bible Reference

Luke 19:2-4

About This Hymn

John Newton was born in London, England, in 1725. Though he grew up in a Christian home, his mother, a godly influence in his early life, passed away when he was only seven. By the age of eleven, he had joined his father at sea, beginning a turbulent life marked by reckless adventures and moral waywardness. His youth at sea included a severe punishment for attempting to desert the Royal Navy and a period of captivity under a slave trader in West Africa. Following his escape, Newton himself captained a slave ship, immersing fully in the trade he would later renounce.

Several pivotal experiences led to his spiritual awakening. In 1748, a near-drowning incident profoundly shook him, awakening a desire for God’s mercy. His friendship with Mary Catlett, a deeply pious woman whom he married in 1750, provided additional spiritual influence. Reading Thomas à Kempis’ Imitation of Christ also stirred in him a longing for a transformed life. By 1754, Newton had abandoned the slave trade and, in partnership with William Wilberforce, became a passionate advocate for abolition. His later life combined pastoral ministry with tireless work for social and spiritual reform, leaving a legacy that has inspired countless Christians.

Hymn Sheet for Zacchaeus Climbed the Tree
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Hymn Information

image of Zacchaeus Climbed the Tree of John Newton
  • Category: Hymn
  • Author/Writer: John Newton (1754)
  • Added: October 15, 2025
  • Last Updated: October 15, 2025
  • Views: 21

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