the parables of Jesus: Luke 18:9-14 by ric gustafson
Jesus uses a simple story to challenge his self righteous audience. The word Pharisee has a negative connotation. They were members of the middle class and most were merchants and tradesman. They loved God's law and their goal was to bring every area of life into subjection to the law of God.
The second man was a publican or a collector of public revenues. To put it simply, he is a tax collector. Jewish people hated Hebrews who collected for the Roman government. Jesus used prayer but the theme of the story is being authentic in the presence of God. Jesus points out that the Pharisee prayed about himself. He seeked nothing from God and prayed to himself. The other man simply beat his chest and prayed for God's mercy. The other man moved away from the crowd so he could focus on God.
The bottom line is both went to pray. One went home just the same and the other went home justified.
research help: ' Inverted' by Tom Ellsworth
Peace and God's blessings. Love God
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