From 37f45ec53b574ea7c6fddcc86f0c206fc82d0685 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Lyle Mantooth Date: Fri, 13 Jan 2023 00:38:21 -0500 Subject: [PATCH] Luke 18:9-14 --- content/bible_journal/luke_18:9-14.md | 40 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1 file changed, 40 insertions(+) create mode 100644 content/bible_journal/luke_18:9-14.md diff --git a/content/bible_journal/luke_18:9-14.md b/content/bible_journal/luke_18:9-14.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0ac3df0 --- /dev/null +++ b/content/bible_journal/luke_18:9-14.md @@ -0,0 +1,40 @@ ++++ +title = "Luke 18:9–14" +date = "2023-01-12" ++++ + +### [Read the passage.](https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Lk18.9-14) + +It's so nice when the Bible tells you the reason part of it was written. Here +we are told specifically that this parable was told to some who trusted in +their own righteousness and looked down on those they deemed less holy than +themselves. In this parable, we have two characters from opposite ends of the +respectability spectrum: a Pharisee and a tax collector. If you've been +following along so far, you will be almost as familiar with these stereotypes +as Jesus's audience, and will probably expect how Jesus subverts those +stereotypes. + +Both men go to the temple to pray. The Pharisee's prayer is very boastful, +thanking God that he isn't a sinner like various other men, including the tax +collector he says there with him. His prayer is totally focused on himself. The +tax collector, instead of praying _about_ himself prays _for_ himself. He is +contrite and repentant, knowing that he needs God's mercy to deal with his sin. + +Jesus tells us that the second man was justified before God, contrary to the +expectations of His listeners. It is only when people realize they are sinners +and can't do anything about it on their own do they turn to God for salvation. +Anyone who is full enough of themselves to think they can handle even their +fundamental problems like a sin nature, or so proud to think they are unfixable +and God couldn't possibly accept them, is not going to put their faith in Jesus +Christ for their redemption. + +God's divine reversal of human expectations is a consequence of our sin +positioning us against Him. So then, if we exalt ourselves, He will humble us +because we cannot attain His perfection. Yet if we humble ourselves, +acknowledging our proper place before the Lord, He will lift us up and bless us +beyond our wildest imaginings. + +* * * + +Let us keep in mind both our sin and Your mercy, with all gratitude and +humility.