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The Holy Bible

King James Version
with full narration by Alexander Scourby

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Luke

The Parable of the Pharisee and Publican — Luke 18:9–14

Overview

Jesus contrasts a proud Pharisee with a humble publican who cries for mercy. The publican goes home justified, teaching that God receives humble repentance rather than self-righteous boasting.

Details

Key KJV PassageLuke 18:13 — “God be merciful to me a sinner.”
Main CharactersThe Pharisee, the publican, and God.
Lesson / ThemeHumility and repentance are accepted by God, while pride is rejected.
Connection to ChristChrist justifies sinners who come to God for mercy.
Memory VerseLuke 18:13.
Discussion QuestionsWhat was wrong with the Pharisee’s prayer? Why was the publican justified? How can prayer reveal the heart?

Verse Selections

✎ Luke 18:9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 6 verses

(9) And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:

(10) Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.

(11) The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

(12) I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.

(13) And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon 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 every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.