Parable of the Two Debtors

This parable is built around a self-righteous Pharisee named Simon and a very sinful woman 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, and at great expense, to show deep reverence to Jesus by passionately caring for His feet; but Simon showed contempt for the Rabbi, by judging that Jesus was not a prophet. Jesus then told them a PARABLE about two debtors - to demonstrate His authority as a prophet, His analysis of Simon's contempt and His approval of the one who loved Him more. Finally, the PARDON of Jesus was granted - He showed a special distinction for the woman's love toward Him in contrast to the severe disregard of common hospitality on the part of Simon. A division had occurred - Jesus boldly stated 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.