Pastor Matt returns from a 3-month sabbatical to bring a message from Luke 18:9-14 on the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector.Maurice Ross brings a message from Luke 16:1-15 as we continue our “Stories Worth Living” sermon series on the parables of Luke’s Gospel.
SERMON OUTLINE
“All those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 18:14)
The Situation (Luke 18:9-10)
- The real-life situation for Jesus’ teaching
- The story’s situation for the two men
Two Different Approaches to God (Luke 18:11-13)
- The Pharisee
- His prayer
- His view of God
- His view of himself
- His view of others
- The Tax Collector
- His prayer
- His view of God
- His view of himself
- His view of others
Proper Confidence (Luke 18:14)
- In relation to God
- In relation to ourselves
- In relation to others
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- In what areas of your life are you most confident? What areas are you least confident? Is there a particular time you have felt either one of these things?
- This weekend we continue exploring Jesus’ parables by turning our attention to Luke 18:9-14. After beginning your study in prayer, ask God to speak to you, and then read that passage aloud.
- Luke sets up this parable by telling us who Jesus was specifically addressing in verse 9. Who is Jesus speaking to?
- Background: The parable has two characters, both of whom are going up to the Temple for prayer. Although the Temple was open for private prayer always, this is likely one of the public times of prayer at 9 AM or 3 PM.
- How would you summarize the attitude and approach of the first man, the Pharisee (vss 11-12)?
- How would you summarize the attitude and approach of the second man, the tax collector (vs 13)?
- Which of these men do you relate with more? Why?
- Jesus’ summary statement in 18:14 echoes themes found in other parts of the Bible (Matthew 23:12; Luke 14:11; 1 Peter 5:6). What do you think this means? Try to put it into your own words.
- What is one way that God is speaking to you personally through this study? Whether you are alone or with others, take some time in silence to interact with God from your heart about this. If you’re on your own, write down what you are learning and share it with someone later. If you are with a small group, discuss your thoughts with one another.