The Parables of Jesus :: 9/7/25 :: David Norris

Welcome to Wellspring Church!

This week, Pastor David Norris returned from sabbatical and preached on the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector in Luke 18.

Jesus tells this story “to some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else.” The Pharisee prayed about himself, proud of his good deeds. The tax collector, however, stood at a distance, beat his chest, and pleaded, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”

📖 Key Themes in This Message:

🔹 How self-righteousness blinds us to God’s mercy

🔹 Why pride leads to opposition from God Himself

🔹 The danger of rescuing people before they fully encounter their brokenness

🔹 How true humility opens us to receive grace

Pastor David reminded us that good works are meant to flow out of abiding in Christ, not become a source of pride. God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. The only way up is down—when we bring our sin, weakness, and need honestly before Him, Jesus lifts us up and covers us with His mercy.

📅 Join us this week at Wellspring Church! Visit www.wellspringenglewood.com to learn more.

💬 How is God inviting you to lay down pride and receive His mercy today?