2 Men, 2 Prayers, 2 Destinies

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Sermon Outline

The Pharisee (vv. 10-12)

Stands far off to make a statement (v.11).

• He thinks he is righteous because he is better than those around him (v. 11).
• He thinks he is righteous because of sin he has NOT committed (v.11).
• He thinks he is righteous because of the good things he does (v.12).
• Totally lacked any sense of his need for mercy (v.12).

The Tax Collector (v. 13)

Stands far off because of shame.

• Stands far off
• Head down
• Beat his breast
• Cries out for mercy
  
  • God, Have mercy on me = ‘Make an atonement for me’ Please, let your anger be taken away.

Observations (vv. 9-14)

• Right standing before God is NOT ACHIEVED, it is RECEIVED.
• Implications for sharing the gospel.
• God desires humility in worship.

APPLICATION QUESTIONS

• 2 Men: which one looks like me?
• 2 Prayers: which one most sounds like me?
• 2 Destinies: which one is going to be me?