A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican

by John Bunyan

This book was converted from its physical edition to the digital format by a community of volunteers. You may find it for free on the web. Purchase of the Kindle edition includes wireless delivery.

Genres: Christian, Theology, Nonfiction, Religion, Classics

262 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1685

About the author

John Bunyan, a Christian writer and preacher, was born at Harrowden (one mile south-east of Bedford), in the Parish of Elstow, England. He wrote The Pilgrim's Progress, arguably the most famous published Christian allegory. In the Church of England he is remembered with a Lesser Festival on 30 August.

Reviews

[John Yelverton]

Never a more in depth analysis of the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector will you see than in this book by John Bunyan. His insights are often amazing, but also, due to the length of the work, it can be tedious in points too, as ground is often retrod.

[Jacob]

Difficult. Worth it.

This book was difficult to read. First, it was difficult in the sense that the language is older and at times I felt that I needed a translator to get through. Be prepared for a jolt If you're in the habit of reading contemporary works and then dive into this one.

Second, it was difficult in the sense of conviction. I found Bunyan's handling of this Biblical text to be superb and, as a result, I saw much of myself in both the Pharisee and the Publican. I felt convicted of sin, challenged in my prayers and understanding of God and relationship with Him, and encouraged to continue pursuing what began for me over 20 years ago.

Finally, if you're up for the challenge of non-contemporary English (and even if you're not), I would recommend this book to you. For a non-religious person, it would perhaps give some enlightenment into how Christians read and interpret Scripture, besides a primer on the Gospel itself. For a believer, I hope it would challenge you to see yourself before God in a new light, convicted anew over sin and cherishing once again the salvation you have graciously received. It's a worthy read for all.

[Chris Pridemore]

Challenging yet in-depth study of the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. Painted a bleak picture of the eternal fate of those who are relying upon any self-righteousness on judgment day.

[Aaron Schuschu]

Quite lengthy for the point to be made, but perhaps Bunyan at his best, as far as I have read of him.