When Grace Turns Putrid

Respectable goodness can still conceal self-trust. Jesus contrasts a respected religious man who counts his record with a tax collector who simply asks God for mercy. The tax collector goes home forgiven because God's acceptance cannot be earned by goodness or secured through comparison. In God's holy presence, people see their sin and receive the free grace made possible through Jesus' life and death. That humility replaces contempt with patient prayer and love for people still far from God. Bible Reference: Luke 18:9–14 Preacher: KJ Tromp