Having spoken of the need to pray always and faint not, our Lord turns his attention to “those who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others” (Luke 18:9). The previous parable was specifically for the disciples and spoke of the manner by which God would vindicate His people. This parable is for a different audience—the religious leaders of his time—and deals with the fundamental question: how is one made right with God? In other words, on what basis does God declare a person righteous and effect reconciliation with Himself?