Parable of Two Debtors

This first message in a six part series on parables contrasts a self-righteous Pharisee named Simon and a very sinful woman who is not named. The passage begins with a PARADOX where events turned out contrary to expectations. Simon repeatedly requested for Jesus to come and dine with him, and He finally accepted. At the meal, a very sinful woman went out of her way to show great reverence to Jesus, by passionately caring for His feet, but Simon showed contempt for the Rabbi, by judging that Jesus was not the prophet. Jesus then tells a PARABLE about two debtors to demonstrate His authority as the prophet, His analysis of Simon's contempt and His approval of the one who loved Him more. Jesus then focuses on the PARDON granted as He shows special distinction for the sinful woman's love toward Him in contrast to the severe disregard of common hospitality on the part of Simon. A division has occurred - Jesus boldly states to all at the meal that the sinful woman's sins had been forgiven due to her faith, but He says nothing of Simon, implying that his sins still remained since he did not need much forgiveness.