Commentary

What does Luke 18:14 mean?

“I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” — Luke 18:14

Commentary Devotional Prayer

The Bible verse Luke 18:14 in the King James Version states, "I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."

This verse is part of a larger passage in the Gospel of Luke where Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. In this parable, Jesus contrasts the self-righteousness of the Pharisee with the humility of the tax collector. The verse Luke 18:14 is the conclusion that Jesus draws from the parable, emphasizing the principle of humility and its importance in the eyes of God.

The theme of humility is central to this verse. Jesus is teaching his disciples and the crowd about the importance of having a humble heart and attitude. In the parable, the Pharisee approaches God with a proud and self-righteous attitude, boasting about his own righteousness and looking down on others, particularly the tax collector. In contrast, the tax collector acknowledges his sinfulness and humbly asks for God's mercy. Jesus uses this parable to highlight the value of humility and the detrimental effects of self-exaltation.

The context of this verse is also significant. During the time when Jesus walked the earth, the Pharisees were known for their strict adherence to religious laws and traditions, and they often exhibited a self-righteous and judgmental attitude towards others. Jesus frequently criticized the Pharisees for their hypocrisy and lack of compassion, and this parable is a reflection of that critique. By highlighting the tax collector's humility and the Pharisee's pride, Jesus challenges the prevailing attitudes of the religious leaders of his day and calls attention to the righteousness that comes from a humble heart.

The symbolism in this verse is evident in the contrast between the two characters in the parable. The Pharisee represents pride, self-exaltation, and a legalistic approach to righteousness, while the tax collector symbolizes humility, repentance, and reliance on God's mercy. This allegory serves as a warning against the dangers of self-righteousness and a powerful endorsement of the value of humility in the eyes of God.

Furthermore, the verse also foreshadows the teachings of Jesus on the Kingdom of God, where the lowly are exalted and the proud are brought low. This principle of divine justice is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, and Luke 18:14 echoes the sentiment found in other passages such as Matthew 23:12 and James 4:10.

In conclusion, Luke 18:14 from the King James Version of the Bible encapsulates a powerful message about the importance of humility in the Christian life. The verse serves as a reminder of the dangers of self-righteousness and the exaltation of pride, while also highlighting the rewards of a humble and contrite heart. It encourages believers to approach God with humility, acknowledging their own sinfulness and relying on His mercy and grace. The verse also challenges the prevailing attitudes of the religious leaders of Jesus' time, and it continues to resonate as a timeless lesson for Christians today.

Get our apps

Bible Art

Scripture illustrations

Bible Chat

Scripture study companion

Bible Widget

Daily verses

Bible For Women

Faith & encouragement

Artwork for Luke 18:14

Luke 18:14 - "I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."

"I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted." - Luke 18:14

Luke 18: 9-14

Luke 18:9-14

Luke 14:18 - "And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused."