Sermon 132

📖 Sermon 132 – The Pharisee and the Publican

Date: [no date given]
Text: Luke 18:9–14

Introduction

Jesus speaks this parable to those who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others. Two men go to the temple to pray: one proud, one penitent. Only one returns justified.

I. The Pharisee’s Prayer

A. He stood and prayed “with himself”
His words rose no higher than his own heart.

B. He boasted of his virtues
“I fast twice a week.” “I give tithes of all I possess.”

C. He despised others
“God, I thank Thee that I am not as other men are…” Spiritual pride blinds the soul.

II. The Publican’s Prayer

A. He stood afar off
A sense of unworthiness kept him from lifting his eyes.

B. He smote upon his breast
A sign of deep inward sorrow.

C. His simple plea
“God be merciful to me a sinner.” No excuses, no comparisons — just a cry for grace.

III. Christ’s Verdict

A. “This man went down to his house justified”
Pardon is granted to humility, not pride.

B. “Everyone that exalteth himself shall be abased”
Self-righteousness leads to condemnation.

C. “He that humbleth himself shall be exalted”
Grace lifts up the lowly.

Conclusion

The Pharisee trusted in his works; the publican trusted in God’s mercy. One boasted; one pleaded. One was rejected; one was justified. Let us come before the Lord with the humility of the publican, confessing our sin and seeking His pardoning grace.