Me, A Sinner

10-23-22 Sermon Notes. “Me, a Sinner”
Let’s go to court…the ancient Jewish lawcourt, that is. Anytime there was a charge to be brought against someone – whether minor or major – it had to be brought to the court by the person wronged (not the police or DA’s office). Both “sides” would present their case, trying to persuade the judge that they were right and the other party was wrong. Onlookers watching might think they know what will happen, but it is only really known when the judge makes the final verdict. One or the other side will be vindicated or “justified,” meaning that the decision was in their favor. Sometimes the verdict is a surprise to the onlookers!
The gospel lesson for this Sunday has this kind of courtroom feel to it. Two “litigants” (the Pharisee and the tax collector) stand before the “judge” (God in this case). The “courtroom” is the temple. There are onlookers, who think they know who will be vindicated (justified). Will they be surprised?
9He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: 10“Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.’ 13But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ 14I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 18: 9-14 NRSV)
Why do I say this has a courtroom feel? Because it turns the temple prayer time into a contest. The Pharisee’s “prayer” consists of him telling God (and everyone else) how good he is, and putting down others (thieves, rogues, adulterers) and especially the BIGGEST sinner – the tax collector. We can almost hear him end with, “I rest my case, Your Honor.” Then the tax collector, with simple faith, casts himself on the mercy of the court (God). As Jesus tells this parable, the onlookers lean in to see what the verdict will be. Surprise! It’s not the Pharisee who goes home justified, but the lowly tax collector. What’s going on here?! Join us Sunday to find out.
See you Sunday,
Pastor Sam