It is possible for those who have come back again after repentance to shine with much lustre, and oftentimes more than those who have never fallen at all, I have demonstrated from the divine writings. Thus at least both the publicans and the harlots inherit the kingdom of Heaven, thus many of the last are placed before the first.
-St. John Chrysostom, AN EXHORTATION TO THEODORE AFTER HIS FALL, 4th Century


When lately we made mention of the Pharisee and the publican, and hypothetically yoked two chariots out of virtue and vice; we pointed out each truth, how great is the gain of humbleness of mind, and how great the damage of pride.
-St. John Chrysostom, CONCERNING LOWLINESS OF MIND., 4th Century


For this [pride], even when conjoined with righteousness and fastings and tithes, fell behind; while that [humility], even when yoked with sin, outstripped the Pharisee's pair, even although the charioteer it had was a poor one. For what was worse than the publican?
-St. John Chrysostom, CONCERNING LOWLINESS OF MIND., 4th Century


But all the same since he made his soul contrite, and called himself a sinner; which indeed he was; he surpassed the Pharisee, who had both fastings to tell of and tithes; and was removed from any vice. ... Because even if he was removed from greed of gain and robbery, he had rooted over his soul the mother of all evils -- vain-glory and pride.
-St. John Chrysostom, CONCERNING LOWLINESS OF MIND., 4th Century


For the nature of a fast is such, that it does not suffice to deliver those who practise it, unless it be done according to a suitable law. "For the wrestler," it is said, "is not crowned unless he strive lawfully."
-St. John Chrysostom, Homily III, 4th Century


To the end then, that when we have gone through the labour of fasting, we forfeit not the crown of fasting, we should understand how, and after what manner, it is necessary to conduct this business; since that Pharisee also fasted, but afterwards went down empty, and destitute of the fruit of fasting.
-St. John Chrysostom, Homily III, 4th Century


The Publican fasted not; and yet he was accepted in preference to him who had fasted; in order that thou mayest learn that fasting is unprofitable, except all other duties follow with it.
-St. John Chrysostom, Homily III, 4th Century