Luke 18:13

But the tax collector stood at a distance, unwilling even to lift up his eyes to heaven. Instead, he beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner!'

Study Bible

But the tax collector
The phrase introduces a character who, in the context of first-century Judea, was often despised and considered a sinner. Tax collectors were Jews who collected taxes for the Roman occupiers, often seen as traitors and extortionists. The Greek word for "tax collector" is "τελώνης" (telōnēs), which highlights the societal disdain for these individuals. This sets the stage for a powerful contrast with the Pharisee in the preceding verse, emphasizing humility and repentance over self-righteousness.

stood at a distance
This phrase indicates the tax collector's awareness of his unworthiness and his humility before God. The Greek word "μακρόθεν" (makrothen) suggests a physical and spiritual separation, symbolizing his recognition of sin and the barrier it creates between him and God. This posture of humility is crucial in understanding the heart attitude that God desires.

would not even look up to heaven
The act of not looking up signifies deep shame and contrition. In Jewish culture, looking up to heaven was a common posture of prayer, symbolizing openness and communion with God. The tax collector's refusal to do so underscores his profound sense of unworthiness and repentance. This humility is a stark contrast to the Pharisee's prideful demeanor.

but beat his breast
This action is a physical manifestation of the tax collector's inner turmoil and repentance. In the cultural context, beating one's breast was a sign of extreme sorrow and contrition, often associated with mourning. The Greek word "τύπτω" (typtō) conveys a sense of repeated action, indicating the depth of his remorse. This gesture highlights the sincerity of his repentance.

and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner!'
The plea for mercy is central to the tax collector's prayer. The Greek word "ἱλάσθητί" (hilastheti) is a plea for atonement and propitiation, acknowledging his need for God's grace. By identifying himself as "a sinner," the tax collector confesses his sinfulness and dependence on God's mercy. This confession aligns with the biblical principle that true repentance involves recognizing one's sin and turning to God for forgiveness. The simplicity and sincerity of his prayer contrast with the Pharisee's self-righteousness, illustrating the heart attitude that God honors.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tax Collector
A despised figure in Jewish society, often seen as a traitor for working with the Roman authorities and known for extortion. His humility and repentance are central to this verse.

2. Pharisee (implied)
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, the Pharisee is part of the parable's context. He represents self-righteousness and pride, contrasting with the tax collector's humility.

3. Temple
The setting of the parable, where both the Pharisee and the tax collector go to pray. It symbolizes a place of worship and reflection.

4. Jesus
The speaker of the parable, using this account to teach about humility, repentance, and God's mercy.

5. God
The recipient of the tax collector's prayer, highlighting His role as merciful and just.

Teaching Points

Humility Before God
The tax collector's posture and prayer demonstrate the importance of approaching God with humility, recognizing our own sinfulness.

True Repentance
Genuine repentance involves acknowledging one's sins and seeking God's mercy, as exemplified by the tax collector.

God's Mercy
This verse highlights God's readiness to extend mercy to those who sincerely seek it, regardless of their past.

Contrasting Attitudes
The parable contrasts the self-righteousness of the Pharisee with the humility of the tax collector, teaching that God values a humble heart over outward religious displays.

Prayer as a Reflection of the Heart
The tax collector's prayer is simple yet profound, showing that God values the sincerity of our prayers over their eloquence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the tax collector's attitude in Luke 18:13 challenge our own approach to prayer and repentance?

2. In what ways can we guard against the self-righteousness exemplified by the Pharisee in the broader context of this parable?

3. How does the tax collector's plea for mercy relate to the concept of being "poor in spirit" as described in the Beatitudes?

4. What practical steps can we take to cultivate a heart of humility and repentance in our daily lives?

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

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 51
David's prayer of repentance mirrors the tax collector's plea for mercy, emphasizing a contrite heart.

Matthew 5:3
The Beatitudes begin with "Blessed are the poor in spirit," which aligns with the tax collector's humble attitude.

Romans 3:23
This verse underscores the universal need for God's mercy, as all have sinned and fall short of His glory.

1 John 1:9
The promise of forgiveness for those who confess their sins connects to the tax collector's confession.