Sermon: The Pharisee and the Tax Collector

The Pharisee and the Tax Collector

Luke 18:9-14

July 31, 2016

Pastor Tony Felich

 

Luke 18:9 He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: [10] “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. [11] The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. [12] I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ [13] But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ [14] I tell you, this man 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.” 

Contrary to popular opinion, our acceptance by God is based on His grace alone.  

• The Pharisee exemplifies popular opinion (9-12)  

• The Tax Collector reveals the truth about our acceptance with God (13-14)  

What is your relationship to God? On what basis?