Stories of the Kingdom: The Parables of JesusSample

Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector

Jesus tells a story about two men who went to the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, a respected religious leader known for his adherence to the law, and the other was a tax collector, considered a traitor and sinner by the Jewish community. The Pharisee prayed with pride, thanking God that he was not like other people, including the tax collector, whom he considered a sinner. He boasted about his own righteousness and religious practices.

In contrast, the tax collector stood at a distance, unwilling to even lift his eyes to heaven. He beat his chest in sorrow and humility, confessing his sins and asking God for mercy.

Jesus concludes the parable by stating that the tax collector, not the Pharisee, went home justified before God. He emphasizes that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, but those who humble themselves will be exalted.

How does this parable challenge our understanding of righteousness and humility?