The publican and the pharisee

Verse 1

The Publican and the Pharisee, Described by our Lord! They differ in a great degree, In sentiment and word.

Verse 2

They both went to the house of pray'r, The house for pray'r design'd; Express'd what their desires were, As they bore on their mind.

Verse 3

The Pharisee, one of that class, Who judg'd himself secure; And all inspections he could pass, Because his works were pure.

Verse 4

All that the Publican could plead, That merited no claim; He saw his wants, he felt his need, His soul was fill'd with shame.

Verse 5

He durst not even lift his eyes, But smote upon his breast; Have mercy Lord on me he cries, A sinner much oppress'd.

Verse 6

Would we not feel such like distress, If we our case could see: And stripp'd of all self-righteousness, To Jesus we wold flee.

Verse 7

And though corrupted, vile and base, Condemn'd on ev'ry side; Yet through the Saviour's love and grace, We shall be justified.