What does Luke 18:14 mean?

Jesus finishes the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9–14). This chapter is filled with comparisons. In the previous parable, an ungodly, indifferent judge only gives a widow justice because she is persistent to the point of annoyance. Jesus contrasts the judge with God who will willingly give His elect justice when they faithfully and consistently pray (Luke 18:1–8).

In this parable, Jesus compares the contents and attitudes of two prayers. One comes from a Pharisee and the other from a tax collector.

The Pharisee's prayer is bold, loud, and public. He claims to act more righteously than lesser men. It's worth remembering that typical Pharisaical practices belie that claim (Matthew 6:16–18; Luke 11:42). He celebrates how his pious practices exceed the expectations of the Mosaic law. And he thanks God that he is not like the sinful tax collector.

The tax collector is not known for his piety. He likely works for a Gentile collecting taxes from other Jews to give to the Roman government. In addition, he charges more for himself, becoming rich at the expense of farmers and tradesmen who barely get by. He knows his sin, and his humble prayer proves his repentance.

Ironically, both men leave with what they want. The Pharisee covets the attention of the people (Matthew 6:2). The tax collector needs God's mercy for his sinful state.

The chapter continues with two more comparisons. In the first, children who have nothing to give or keep come to Jesus as they are, while a rich ruler hesitates because he has much to lose (Luke 18:15–25). Finally, the disciples, who can't understand Jesus' coming death, are outmatched by a blind beggar who understands and believes what he hears: Jesus the Son of David (Luke 18:31–43).