The Story: Two Prayers in the Temple

Jesus spoke this parable specifically to those who "trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt" (Luke 18:9).

• The Pharisee's Prayer: The Pharisee stood and prayed to himself, thanking God that he was not like other people—specifically naming "extortioners, unjust, adulterers," and even this very Tax Collector. He then listed his good works: fasting twice a week and giving tithes (ten percent) on all his income. His prayer was a boastful statement of his own religious achievements.

• The Tax Collector’s Prayer: The Tax Collector stood far off, not even daring to lift his eyes to heaven. Tax collectors were despised Jews who worked for the Roman occupiers, often overcharging their own people for personal gain. He simply beat his chest in genuine sorrow and prayed a short, desperate plea: "God, be merciful to me, a sinner!"

• The Verdict: Jesus delivered the startling conclusion: "I tell you, this man [the Tax Collector] went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted." (Luke 18:14)

I. The Core Lesson: Justification by Mercy

The central question in the parable is: Who was made right with God (justified) that day?

• The Pharisee's Error (The "I" Problem): His prayer was a monologue about his goodness and others' wickedness. He did not ask God for anything; he essentially presented God with a resume of merit. Because he felt no need for mercy, he received none.

• The Tax Collector's Wisdom (The "Me" Problem): He came to God with a desperate acknowledgement of his sin and a single request for mercy. He didn't boast; he begged. Because he humbled himself and confessed his need for God's grace, he was instantly justified. The only thing you can bring to God to receive salvation is your sin and your humble request for forgiveness.

II. The Character Trait: Humility in Prayer

This parable defines the foundation of a Christian's approach to God: absolute humility.

1. Humility is Knowing Your Place

Humility is not thinking poorly of yourself; it is having an accurate view of yourself in relation to a holy God. It means recognizing that any goodness you have comes from God, and anything you present as your own "merit" is nothing more than filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6).

2. Avoid Contempt for Others

The Pharisee’s pride led directly to contempt for the Tax Collector. True believers, knowing how much mercy they required, will look upon others—even those caught in deep sin—with compassion and a sincere prayer for their salvation, rather than judgment.

Applying the Truth Today

As a new Christian, always remember the Tax Collector's prayer. Never come to God assuming you've been "good enough." Come to God every time with a humble, grateful heart, acknowledging your complete dependence on the mercy of Jesus Christ. This attitude is what opens the door of heaven to your prayers.

Reflection Questions for Your Journey:

1. The Comparison Trap. When you see someone struggling with sin or who acts differently than you, are you ever tempted to pray the Pharisee's prayer ("Thank you, God, that I am not like that person")?

2. The Attitude of Mercy. What practical step can you take this week to pray for—and show respect to—someone you typically view with judgment or contempt?

3. The Justified Heart. How does knowing that God justified the man who simply cried "Have mercy on me, a sinner!" give you confidence in your own relationship with Christ?

Your Reading Guide

To reflect on the nature of humility and righteousness, read the full account in Luke 18:9–14. For more teaching on humility, read 1 Peter 5:6.