“For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted” (Matthew 23:12, KJV).

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the parable of the Pharisee and the publican from Luke 18, illustrating the contrast between self-righteousness and humble repentance. It emphasizes that true worship stems from recognizing our need for God’s mercy, fostering transformation through humility, and fulfilling responsibilities to God and neighbor with grace and compassion.

TRUE WORSHIP REVEALED!

True worship is not defined by rituals, external practices, or moral comparisons but by humility and dependence on God. Jesus addresses these questions in the parable of the Pharisee and the publican.

Luke 18:9–14 “And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. 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. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. 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. 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.”

Jesus contrasts two worshippers—the Pharisee and the publican—revealing the dangers of self-righteousness and the transformative power of humility. Their contrasting prayers expose the danger of self-righteousness and the beauty of humility. Romans 7:18 reminds us, “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing.” The apostle Paul acknowledges the human condition of sinfulness and our inability to achieve righteousness apart from God. Similarly, Galatians 6:14 declares, “But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” These verses emphasize that salvation is grounded in Christ’s sacrifice, not human merit. The Bible reinforces this truth with James 4:10, “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up,” highlighting the exaltation that follows genuine humility. Likewise, Proverbs 22:4 states, “By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life,” underscoring the rewards of a humble spirit before God. Ellen G. White expands on this point, stating, “True humility is the evidence that we behold God and that we are in union with Jesus Christ” (The Review and Herald, May 11, 1897). She further notes, “Real humility fulfills God’s purposes by depending upon His strength” (Education, p. 240, 1903). This parable invites us to examine our hearts and redefine our approach to worship. Worship begins when we acknowledge our shortcomings and seek God’s grace to transform us. The central theme of this parable is that outward acts of worship must reflect inward humility. It challenges us to ask: Do we approach God with a heart of surrender or rely on our works to justify ourselves? But how often do we measure our righteousness against others instead of God’s standard?

COMPARISON’S DEADLY TRAP!

The Pharisee, standing in the temple, measured his righteousness by the actions of others rather than God’s character. The Pharisee represents a worshipper whose focus is on himself rather than God. Standing in the temple, he prays, “God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are” (Luke 18:11). This attitude of comparison blinds him to his own need for mercy. Sr. White explains, “His mind is turned away from God to humanity. This is the secret of his self-satisfaction” (Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 150–151). She explains, “He judges his character, not by the holy character of God, but by the character of other men. His mind is turned away from God to humanity” (Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 150–151). The Pharisee’s self-satisfaction stems from comparing himself to others, rather than measuring himself against God’s holiness. The Pharisee’s focus on external actions, such as fasting and tithing, fostered pride and condemnation of others. I once faced this struggle early in my faith journey. My knowledge of the Sabbath and God’s laws made me morally superior. Like the Pharisees, I focused on what I knew and what others lacked. It wasn’t until I attended missionary school that my perspective shifted. I realized that knowledge of truth is not a badge of superiority but a responsibility to share God’s love with others. Galatians 6:14 (KJV) “But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” This verse reminds us that Christ’s sacrifice is the only thing we can glorify. Ellen White warns against this attitude, saying, “The spirit of Phariseeism is the spirit of human nature, and wherever it exists it always leads its possessor to exalt himself above others” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 151). This spirit of self-exaltation can quietly creep into our worship, blinding us to our dependence on God. The Bible reinforces this truth with Proverbs 29:23, “A man’s pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit,” showing the downfall of comparison-driven pride. Similarly, James 4:6 declares, “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble,” affirming God’s opposition to self-exaltation. Sr. White further states, “God’s promises are all on condition of humble obedience” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 314, 1890). She adds, “Humility is greatly needed. If cherished, it would be an ornament of great value in the sight of God” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 123, 1889). How often do we judge others for their lack of understanding rather than extend the grace and truth we’ve received? But what happens when we rely on outward practices to define our worth?

OUTWARD RELIGION’S SNARE!

The Pharisee’s prayer revealed his reliance on outward religious practices to justify himself. He boasts, “I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess” (Luke 18:12). Here, he listed his deeds—fasting and tithing—as evidence of his worthiness. These acts, while commendable, become sources of pride rather than expressions of devotion. Ellen White describes this mindset: “Whoever trusts in himself that he is righteous, will despise others” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 151). She further explains, “No outward observances can take the place of simple faith and entire renunciation of self” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 159). Ellen White warns that self-righteousness leads to despising others: “The worse they are, the more righteous by contrast he appears” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 151).
Have you ever needed to reassess whether your worship reflects genuine devotion or habit?
In my own experience, I have relied on outward actions—tithing and regular church attendance—to justify myself. At times, I felt superior to those who struggled in these areas. But I eventually realized that my focus was misplaced. As Proverbs 16:5 warns, “Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord.” True worship requires inward transformation, not outward appearances. I had to ask myself, “Am I truly growing spiritually, or am I just going through the motions?” God desires not outward compliance but inward change. We must ask ourselves: Are we living to please God or to impress others? Are we fasting and tithing out of gratitude or to gain recognition? Ellen White cautions, “The righteousness of Christ is not a cloak to cover unconfessed and unforsaken sin” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 311). Worship that pleases God flows from repentance and faith, not performance. The Bible reinforces this truth with Colossians 2:23, “Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body: not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh,” exposing the futility of self-imposed rituals. Similarly, Amos 5:21 states, “I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies,” rejecting outward forms without heartfelt devotion. Sr. White further explains, “No outward observances can take the place of simple faith and entire renunciation of self” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 159, 1868). She adds, “Outward forms and ceremonies do not constitute true worship” (The Great Controversy, p. 189, 1888). But what power lies in approaching God with a cry for mercy and a broken spirit?

MERCY’S HUMBLE CRY!

In contrast to the Pharisee, the publican’s prayer reveals humility and dependence on God’s mercy. The publican stood far off, refusing to lift his eyes to heaven, and pleaded, “God be merciful to me a sinner” (Luke 18:13). His humility allowed him to receive God’s forgiveness. Ellen White writes, “There is nothing so offensive to God, or so dangerous to the human soul, as pride and self-sufficiency. Of all sins it is the most hopeless, the most incurable” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 154). Have you ever struggled to forgive someone, only to find that humility and prayer opened the door to healing? I recall a time when my pride prevented me from seeking forgiveness during a painful separation from my family. I felt justified in my resentment, but God revealed that forgiveness was necessary and freeing. Through prayer, God softened my heart, and I could release my bitterness. Psalm 34:18 assures us, “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” Sr. White further emphasizes, “The soul that is transformed by the grace of Christ will admire His divine character” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 160). Brokenness opens the door to transformation, enabling us to reflect God’s character rather than our own. The Bible reinforces this truth with Psalm 51:17, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise,” affirming God’s acceptance of humble repentance. Similarly, Isaiah 57:15 declares, “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones,” promising revival through brokenness. Sr. White states, “The contrite heart finds favor with God” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 725, 1890). She adds, “Brokenness before God is the pathway to mercy and grace” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 407, 1875). But how does this brokenness lead to lasting transformation in our lives?

BROKENNESS TO RENEWAL!

The publican’s prayer teaches us that God meets us in our brokenness. The publican’s humble posture demonstrates that transformation begins with acknowledging our sinfulness. Isaiah 66:2 says, “To this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit.” Psalm 34:18 assures us, “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart.” Peter’s story mirrors this journey. Ellen White reminds us that Peter’s transformation began with his recognition of failure: “Peter never forgot the fearful experience of his humiliation; his sin was forgiven… only the grace of Christ could avail” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 160). Have you experienced God’s grace during a season of brokenness? How did it change your perspective? I’ve experienced this personally during my marriage struggles and financial hardships. Sometimes, I tried to fix things independently, only to fail repeatedly. It was in my brokenness that I finally cried out to God, recognizing my need for His mercy. God’s grace healed me and gave me a new purpose to support others in their struggles. Sr. White reminds us, “He who beholds Christ in His self-denial, His humiliation, sees his own unworthiness” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 160). True worship involves surrender, not self-reliance. The Bible reinforces this truth with 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new,” illustrating renewal through brokenness. Similarly, Ezekiel 36:26 states, “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh,” promising transformation of the heart. Sr. White explains, “The grace of God alone can renew the heart” (The Desire of Ages, p. 189, 1898). She adds, “Brokenness is the beginning of true spiritual growth” (Steps to Christ, p. 64, 1892). But what dangers arise when pride blinds us to our spiritual state?

SPIRITUAL BLINDNESS ALERT!

The Pharisee’s attitude reflects the spirit of the Laodicean church, which declares, “I am rich, and increased with goods” (Revelation 3:17). Yet Christ warns that they are “wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.” Pride blinds us to our true spiritual condition. Sr. White calls this condition “the most hopeless, the most incurable” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 154). How often do we mistake outward success for spiritual health? I once believed that attending church and following religious practices made me spiritually healthy. But as I grew in faith, I saw areas where I was spiritually blind—trusting in my efforts rather than God’s grace. Christ’s invitation to the Laodiceans to “buy of me gold tried in the fire” (Revelation 3:18) reminds us to seek His refining work. The Bible reinforces this truth with 2 Corinthians 4:4, “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them,” revealing Satan’s role in spiritual blindness. Similarly, Ephesians 4:18 states, “Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart,” describing separation from God through pride. Sr. White warns, “Pride and self-sufficiency lie at the foundation of the greatest trials and discords” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 343, 1873). She adds, “Spiritual blindness results from exalting self above God” (The Review and Herald, March 22, 1887). But how does humility lead to exaltation in God’s eyes?

HUMILITY’S EXALTED PATH!

Jesus concludes the parable with a powerful lesson, “For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted” (Luke 14:11). Ellen White states, “Thus he is making manifest the very spirit of Satan, the accuser of the brethren” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 151). The Pharisee’s pride reflects Satan’s rebellion, while the publican’s humility reflects Christ’s spirit of submission. True worship begins when we lay down our pride and acknowledge our dependence on God. Isaiah 66:2 affirms that God looks to the one “that is poor and of a contrite spirit.” This challenges us to embrace humility both in worship and daily life. We are called to model Christ’s humility in prayer, relationships, or service. Have you found freedom and transformation through surrendering your pride to God? Reflecting on my journey, I see how humility has drawn me closer to God. Whether it was acknowledging my failures in relationships or recognizing my spiritual blindness, humility has been the doorway to grace. God doesn’t ask for perfection; He asks for surrender. The Bible reinforces this truth with 1 Peter 5:5-6, “Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time,” promising elevation through submission. Similarly, Proverbs 11:2 states, “When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the humble is wisdom,” contrasting shame with the wisdom of humility. Sr. White affirms, “God exalts the humble who depend on Him” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 751, 1890). She adds, “True humility exalts us in God’s sight” (The Sanctified Life, p. 13, 1889). But how does humility reflect God’s love in our lives?

GOD’S LOVE THROUGH HUMILITY!

The concepts presented in this parable reflect God’s love by emphasizing His mercy, patience, and willingness to forgive those who approach Him with humility. God’s love is most clearly seen in His response to the publican’s plea for mercy, which demonstrates His readiness to embrace the repentant heart. Psalm 34:18 affirms this truth: “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” This verse highlights that God does not reject us in our brokenness but draws near, offering comfort and restoration. Sr. White echoes this theme, explaining, “There is nothing so offensive to God, or so dangerous to the human soul, as pride and self-sufficiency” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 154). Pride distances us from God, but humility opens the door to His love. The publican’s prayer, “God be merciful to me a sinner” (Luke 18:13), captures the essence of surrender, reflecting the type of heart God desires. Ellen White emphasizes, “The soul that is transformed by the grace of Christ will admire His divine character” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 160). This transformation is not based on human merit but on God’s unchanging love. His grace is freely given, reminding us that no matter how far we have fallen, God’s love is sufficient to redeem and restore. The story of the publican reminds us that God’s love does not depend on perfection but on a willingness to confess and seek His mercy. In reflecting on my own struggles—pride, brokenness, and the need for forgiveness—I have experienced God’s love as a steady anchor that reshapes my heart and calls me into deeper relationship with Him. Isaiah 66:2 reminds us, “To this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit.” The Bible reinforces this truth with Ephesians 2:4-5, “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;),” showcasing God’s mercy in revival. Similarly, Titus 3:5 states, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost,” emphasizing salvation through mercy. Sr. White declares, “God’s love is without a parallel” (Steps to Christ, p. 15, 1892). She adds, “Humility opens the door to God’s infinite love” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 139, 1880). But what are our responsibilities to God in light of this love?

Based on the concepts in this parable, we owe God the responsibility of humility, surrender, and service that reflects His grace and love. God desires hearts that recognize their dependence on Him and live in obedience to His will. Micah 6:8 summarizes this responsibility, saying, “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” This verse highlights that our responsibility is not rooted in outward actions but in a transformed character that mirrors God’s justice, mercy, and humility. Sr. White emphasizes this by stating, “No outward observances can take the place of simple faith and entire renunciation of self” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 159). We must approach God with faith and surrender, recognizing that our righteousness comes from Him, not ourselves. The Pharisee in the parable failed in this responsibility by trusting in his works rather than God’s grace, while the publican fulfilled it by confessing his sin and seeking mercy. Sr. White explains, “The nearer we come to Jesus, and the more clearly we discern the purity of His character, the more clearly we shall discern the exceeding sinfulness of sin” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 160). This awareness leads us to daily repentance and dependence on Christ. Furthermore, our responsibility to God includes sharing His truth and love with others. Matthew 28:19 commands, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations.” Ellen White echoes this call, saying, “The knowledge of God as revealed in Christ is the knowledge that all who are saved must have… It is the knowledge that works transformation of character” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 114). This means we must live out God’s love and actively teach and demonstrate it to others, just as Christ commanded.
The Bible reinforces this truth with Deuteronomy 10:12, “And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul,” outlining devotion and service. Similarly, Ecclesiastes 12:13 states, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man,” defining our core obligation. Sr. White affirms, “Our responsibility to God is to live humbly and serve Him faithfully” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 283, 1909). She adds, “Surrender to God brings true freedom” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 131, 1905). But how do we extend this love to our neighbors?

Based on the concepts in this parable, we owe our neighbors the responsibilities of compassion, justice, and encouragement, reflecting God’s mercy in our relationships. Philippians 2:3–4 instructs us, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” This verse calls us to practice humility and selflessness, placing the needs of others above our desires or judgments. Sr. White supports this idea: “Love is the basis of godliness. Whatever the profession, no man has pure love to God unless he has unselfish love for his brother” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 384). The Pharisee in the parable failed in this responsibility by exalting himself and looking down on the publican. In contrast, the publican’s humble confession reflected an attitude of equality and shared dependence on God’s mercy. White warns, “Whoever trusts in himself that he is righteous, will despise others” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 151). This pride not only separates us from God but also damages our relationships with others by fostering judgment rather than compassion. Our responsibility, therefore, is to treat others with grace and fairness, acknowledging that we are all sinners in need of God’s mercy. Galatians 6:2 reminds us, “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” This verse emphasizes that love is active, demonstrated by carrying each other’s struggles, offering support, and restoring those who have fallen with gentleness. Ellen White echoes this thought, saying, “In every command and in every promise of the Word of God is the power, the very life of God… It transforms the nature and recreates the soul in the image of God” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 38). In Leviticus 19:18, “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord,” commanding selfless love. Similarly, Romans 13:10 states, “Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law,” fulfilling duties through compassion. Sr. White declares, “Our duty to our neighbor is to reflect God’s love in action” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 75, 1896). She adds, “Compassion and justice are the fruits of true humility” (The Review and Herald, July 21, 1891). But what timeless lessons does this parable hold for worship today?

PARABLE’S ETERNAL LESSONS!

The parable of the Pharisee and the publican is more than a lesson about two individuals; it’s a mirror for us all. It challenges us to move beyond outward religion and embrace genuine humility. This parable challenges us to examine whether our worship reflects humility or pride. Ellen White writes, “He found in himself nothing in which to glory” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 160). As we examine our hearts, we must ask:

1. Are we relying on religious habits or humbly depending on God’s mercy?
2. Are we lifting ourselves by tearing others down or extending grace?

True worship transforms both the individual and the community. Let us commit to being like the publican—broken, repentant, and open to God’s grace. In doing so, we will find forgiveness and the power to live as testimonies of His mercy. God’s love is not conditional; it is transformational. It invites us, like the publican, to come as we are, seek His mercy, and trust His grace to make us new. This parable assures us that God’s love does not exalt the proud but lifts the humble, offering hope and restoration to all who seek Him with sincerity. Our responsibility to God is to live humbly, depend on His grace, and share His truth. The parable reminds us that worship is not about outward practices but sincere surrender and faithful service. We honor God and invite others to experience His mercy and transformation by fulfilling these responsibilities. We owe our neighbors acts of compassion, justice, and restoration. The parable reminds us to reject prideful judgment and reflect Christ’s humility in our relationships. As we bear one another’s burdens and extend God’s mercy, we fulfill our responsibility to love others as Christ has loved us. The Bible reinforces this truth with 1 John 4:21, “And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also,” linking love for God with neighborly duty. Similarly, Matthew 22:39 states, “And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself,” commanding equal compassion. Sr. White affirms, “The love of God demands our service to others” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 225, 1905). She adds, “True worship exalts God through humble service” (Education, p. 253, 1903). Will you join me in humbling yourself before God and seeking His transforming power today?

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