Scripture teaches that God created people to exist in a deeply personal and enrichening relationship with Him. Indeed, it’s the basis for genuine human flourishing in all areas of life.   Scripture also teaches that the entrance of sin into the human race caused an immediate and permanent estrangement between people and their Creator-King. To put a fine point on it, in their fallen human state, everyone is alienated from the Lord, as well as from each other.   On what basis, then, can people approach God and experience His forgiveness? Jesus’ parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, which is recorded in Luke 18:9–14, provides two diametrically opposite responses…