“He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: ‘Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: “God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.” But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat 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 everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted’” (Luke 18:9-14; all Scripture quotations are from the English Standard Version).

Which sin did Jesus rebuke most harshly? Usually, it was pride. He spoke against sexual immorality, greed, and other sins, but if anything “got His goat,” it was pride.

I know “pride” is a loaded word in June, so before I proceed: This is addressed to all kinds of pride. It is neither liberal nor conservative, straight nor gay, etc. Pride is pride. Sin is sin.

“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18).

“But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble’” (James 4:6).

Even if we speak the truth about God’s Word and will, we must look at our hearts. It is tempting to say, like the Pharisee, “Thank God I’m not one of those people.” Until we look at ourselves, confessing our sins instead of mocking those of our neighbors, God cannot work in our lives. God could work on the tax collector: he knew he needed help.

May we humble ourselves, receive God’s forgiving and sanctifying grace, and share the love of Jesus with those around us. Let us pray that they may see Christ in us and come to Him for forgiveness and a new life.

Share your thoughts about pride (or other topics related to this passage) in the comments area below.

Copyright © 2024 Michael E. Lynch. All rights reserved.