This parable shocked the people who thought they were good and followed all the laws and hated those who did not, like the tax collector. Jesus explained that those who recognized they were sinners, humbled themselves and asked for mercy and forgiveness for their sins would be justified. It is in coming to God with a repentant heart and accepting Jesus as our Savior that we are saved, not by our good deeds. Luke 18:9-14; Proverbs 8:13, 16:18; Psalm 51:17 (NKJV)