Luke 18:10

Commentary on Luke 18:10 (KJV)

Luke 18:10 introduces one of Jesus' most significant parables, commonly known as the Parable of the Pharisee and the Publican. This verse sets the scene for a profound lesson on humility, righteousness, and the true nature of prayer.

Context

This verse immediately follows the Parable of the Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8), which emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer and God's readiness to answer. However, the specific audience and purpose for the Pharisee and Publican parable are explicitly stated in Luke 18:9, where Jesus directs it "unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others." This crucial introduction reveals Jesus' intent to challenge the self-righteous attitudes prevalent among some religious people of His time. The setting is the Temple in Jerusalem, the central place of Jewish worship, where both devout and ordinary people would go to pray, setting the stage for the dramatic contrast in their prayers and ultimate justification, as highlighted in the parable's conclusion.

Key Themes

• Contrasting Approaches to God: The verse immediately presents two starkly different individuals, foreshadowing their divergent attitudes and spiritual states before God.
• The Nature of Prayer: While both men go "to pray," the parable will reveal that the mere act of prayer is insufficient; the heart's posture and motive are paramount.
• Righteousness and Humility: This verse lays the groundwork for exploring true righteousness, which is not based on self-perceived merit or external religious observance, but on humility and dependence on God's grace.

Linguistic Insights

• Pharisee: The Greek word is Pharisaios (Φαρισαῖος), derived from the Hebrew `perushim`, meaning "separated ones." Pharisees were a highly respected, devout Jewish sect known for their strict adherence to the Mosaic Law and oral traditions. They were often seen as the epitome of religious piety.
• Publican: The Greek word is telones (τελώνης), referring to a tax collector. In Jewish society, publicans were despised as traitors and extortionists because they collected taxes for the Roman occupiers and often enriched themselves through corrupt practices. They were generally regarded as sinners and outcasts.
• Temple: The Greek word is hieron (ἱερόν), which refers to the entire temple complex, including its courts and outer areas, where people would gather for prayer and worship, rather than just the inner sanctuary.

Practical Application

Luke 18:10 serves as a powerful reminder for believers today:

• Examine Your Heart in Prayer: The verse prompts us to consider our own motives and attitudes when we approach God in prayer. Are we coming with a spirit of humility and dependence, or with a sense of self-righteousness?
• Beware of Spiritual Pride: It highlights the subtle danger of spiritual pride, where one might trust in their own good works, religious observances, or moral standing, while looking down on others. This can hinder a genuine relationship with God.
• God's Acceptance of the Humble: Though only the introduction, this verse sets up the profound truth that God draws near to the humble and repentant, not those who are self-justified. As James 4:6 states, "God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble."