Can you point to a reference? I don't think you are recalling the story correctly.
They were money changers (currency exchange) and merchants, not a single tax collector.
Jesus cleansed the temple twice, it wasn't a single event.
Matthew was a tax collector, one of his key disciples. Jesus was also compassionate towards Zaccheus, who was a wealthy tax collector. Zaccheus was wise enough to repent from his over-taxing of citizens, however.
I think it takes at least two reads. It was difficult the first time trying to keep track of everything in my head. I reckon its not worth feeling inferior about it and just give it a go. I recommend treating it like episodes.
Children of Hurin (the standalone book) is definitely worth a read once you have the context. The audiobook with Christopher Lee's narration is an excellent choice.
Both sides, because both have extremist ideologies.
Freedom of speech is a government thing, this article is about organisations. It doesn't apply.