Why did you show up?

Key Question: Why do we show up? What drives our spiritual actions?1. Their Standing (Luke 18:9;13):The Right Thing to Bring: Only Christ brings us into good standing with God.Misconception:The Pharisee relied on self-righteous acts and public recognition.He used prayer as a performance rather than worship.Truth: The church or personal deeds don’t establish righteousness—only Christ does.Contrast:The publican’s humility vs. the Pharisee’s pride.The publican’s inability to even look up, overwhelmed by guilt.Reflection:What do we rely on to approach God?Pride vs. Pardon: What’s the posture of our hearts?2. Their Sayings (Luke 18:11;13):The Pharisee:Addressed God, but his focus was on himself.His prayer was full of self-praise and judgment of others.CAUTION: It’s possible to “pray” but actually talk to yourself instead of God.Passion for self’s agenda instead of God’s.Emphasis on “my will” instead of “Thy will.”The Publican:Genuine humility in prayer—acknowledging his sin and seeking mercy.His focus was on God, not himself or others.Application:Church’s purpose:Helps us get right with God.It’s not for correcting others; God has designated pastors for teaching and guiding.3. Their Separation:Outcome of Wrong Reasons:The Pharisee left unchanged and empty.Pride leads to spiritual stagnation.Outcome of Right Reasons:The sinner left justified and satisfied.Humility and sincerity bring transformation.Reflection:Living the Christian life the wrong way: focusing on others’ faults, superficial acts.Quotes to ponder:Mark Twain: “Why don’t you stay here, and keep [the Ten Commandments]?”Gandhi: “The reason I’m not a Christian is because of the other Christians.”Conclusion:Why Do We Come?Examine our motivations for attending church and approaching God.What Do We Do When We Leave?Carry humility and seek to grow spiritually.How Must We Return?With a heart ready to seek God’s will and glorify Him.Final Thought: True worship and connection with God require humility, sincerity, and reliance on Christ—not ourselves. Let’s approach Him the right way.