Luke 18:11

The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed, 'God, I thank You that I am not like the other men--swindlers, evildoers, adulterers--or even like this tax collector.

Study Bible

The Pharisee
The Pharisees were a prominent religious group in first-century Judaism known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and the oral traditions. The Greek word for Pharisee, "Pharisaios," is derived from a Hebrew root meaning "separated." This separation was both physical and spiritual, as they sought to maintain purity by distancing themselves from anything considered unclean. Historically, the Pharisees were influential in the synagogues and often clashed with Jesus over interpretations of the law and issues of the heart. In this context, the Pharisee represents a self-righteous attitude, relying on external observance rather than internal transformation.

stood by himself
The phrase "stood by himself" suggests a physical and spiritual posture of separation and self-reliance. The Greek word "histemi" means to stand, and it implies a deliberate positioning. This action reflects the Pharisee's desire to be seen as distinct and superior, not only from the tax collector but from the common people. It highlights a heart posture that is more concerned with self-exaltation than with humility before God. This separation is symbolic of the Pharisee's spiritual isolation, as he relies on his own righteousness rather than seeking God's grace.

prayed
Prayer, in its essence, is communication with God. The Greek word "proseuchomai" is used here, which means to offer prayers or supplications. However, the Pharisee's prayer is not a genuine conversation with God but rather a self-congratulatory monologue. This misuse of prayer as a platform for self-promotion rather than humble petition reveals a misunderstanding of its purpose. True prayer is an act of worship and submission, acknowledging God's sovereignty and our dependence on Him.

God, I thank You
The Pharisee begins his prayer with a statement of thanksgiving, which is typically a commendable practice. However, the Greek word "eucharisteo," meaning to give thanks, is here used ironically. The Pharisee's gratitude is not for God's grace or mercy but for his own perceived superiority. This reflects a heart that is not truly thankful, as genuine gratitude recognizes God's unmerited favor rather than personal merit. The Pharisee's thanksgiving is self-centered, lacking the humility that should accompany true worship.

that I am not like other men
This phrase reveals the Pharisee's self-righteousness and judgmental attitude. The Greek word "hosper" means "just as" or "like," indicating a comparison. The Pharisee's prayer is not about seeking God's will or expressing love for others but about elevating himself above them. This comparison is antithetical to the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized humility and love for one's neighbor. The Pharisee's attitude reflects a heart that is more concerned with self-justification than with God's righteousness.

swindlers, evildoers, adulterers
The Pharisee lists specific sins to highlight his perceived moral superiority. The Greek words "harpax" (swindlers), "adikos" (evildoers), and "moichos" (adulterers) describe behaviors that are indeed contrary to God's law. However, by focusing on the sins of others, the Pharisee fails to recognize his own need for repentance. This enumeration of sins serves to bolster his self-image rather than to seek God's mercy. It underscores a legalistic mindset that values external compliance over internal transformation.

or even like this tax collector
The mention of the tax collector, "telones" in Greek, is significant. Tax collectors were despised in Jewish society for their collaboration with the Roman occupiers and their reputation for extortion. By comparing himself to the tax collector, the Pharisee seeks to further elevate his own status. However, Jesus uses this comparison to illustrate the contrast between self-righteousness and true repentance. The tax collector, despite his social standing, is the one who approaches God with humility and receives justification. This highlights the biblical principle that God exalts the humble and resists the proud.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharisee
A member of an ancient Jewish sect, known for strict adherence to the Law and traditions. In this parable, the Pharisee represents self-righteousness and pride.

2. Tax Collector
Considered a sinner and traitor by the Jewish people for working with the Roman authorities. In this parable, he represents humility and repentance.

3. Temple
The place where the Pharisee and the tax collector went to pray. It symbolizes the presence of God and a place of worship and reflection.

4. Prayer
The act of communicating with God. The Pharisee's prayer is self-centered, highlighting his perceived righteousness.

5. Parable
A simple account used by Jesus to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson. This parable contrasts the attitudes of the Pharisee and the tax collector.

Teaching Points

Self-Righteousness vs. Humility
The Pharisee's prayer is a caution against self-righteousness. True righteousness comes from God, not from comparing ourselves to others.

The Heart of Prayer
Prayer should be an act of humility and repentance, not a platform for self-exaltation. God values a contrite heart.

God's Grace for the Humble
The tax collector's humility and repentance are met with God's grace. We should approach God with a humble heart, acknowledging our need for His mercy.

Avoiding Comparison
Comparing ourselves to others can lead to pride. Instead, we should focus on our relationship with God and our own spiritual growth.

The Danger of Pride
Pride can blind us to our own faults and distance us from God. We must be vigilant in maintaining a humble spirit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Pharisee's attitude in prayer reflect a misunderstanding of righteousness?

2. In what ways can we guard against self-righteousness in our own lives?

3. How does the tax collector's approach to prayer demonstrate true humility?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure our prayers are focused on God rather than ourselves?

5. How can we apply the lesson of this parable to our interactions with others, especially those we might be tempted to judge?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 6:5-6
Jesus teaches about the proper attitude in prayer, warning against praying to be seen by others, similar to the Pharisee's behavior.

Romans 3:23
This verse reminds us that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, countering the Pharisee's self-righteousness.

James 4:6
God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble, aligning with the parable's message about humility.