The Parable of the Persistent Widow and the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector

The message to us in these two parables:

Pray always; don’t lose heart (1 Thess 5:17; Col 4:2).

The Pharisee “prayed about/with himself” (v. 11) His prayer was more about himself and not about God or to God. It was not God-centered it was self-centered. Please do not pray like this Pharisee

Who’s who in these two parables

• The Widow: Alone and vulnerable; Her only “power” is persistance—and that’s enough to move even a corrupt judge;
  
• The Judge: Likely a Roman/Herodian magistrate. Notorious for being corrupt and irreligious.
  
• The Pharisee: Historically devout and respected, but typically known for self-trust, contempt for others and hypocrisy.
  
• The Tax Collector: Socially despised collaborator within Rome’s tax system; Considered by most Jews a traitor.
  

Walking Points:

Parable 1 teaches the frequency and perseverance of prayer to a just God.

• “Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thess 5:17)
  
• “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” (Col 4:2)
  

Parable 2 teaches the spirit of prayer—humble, mercy-seeking dependence that receives justification.

“And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness.” (Romans 4:5)

• “And be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith.” (Philippians 3:9)

Monday Morning Moment: Biblical prayer should be a mirror to see ourselves and a window to see God through His Word.