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HomeBible CommentaryLukeChapter 18Luke 18:2

Luke 18:2 meaning

In the context of this passage, Jesus tells a parable that stands as an encouragement for perseverance in prayer amidst trials. The unjust judge, characterized by his disregard for both God and people, illustrates how even someone of such dubious moral standing can be influenced by persistent petitioning. The widow, embodying vulnerability and desperation, continually seeks justice, reflecting the necessity of steadfastness in prayer, particularly against oppressive forces. This scenario is designed to contrast human persistence with God's infinitely greater willingness to respond to those who call on Him.

As Jesus articulates this teaching, it emphasizes that while persistence in prayer is vital, God's nature is entirely unlike that of the unjust judge. He assures His followers that God will swiftly bring justice to His elect—those chosen and cherished by Him. This contrast not only reassures believers of God's attentiveness to their prayers but also poses a thought-provoking question: when He returns, will He find enduring faith among His followers? The principle here is that prayer should not merely be seen as a duty but as a profound dialogue with a loving and just God who seeks to protect and avenge His people. The scripture reference for this teaching can be found in Luke 18:2.

Other Relevant Commentaries:

  • Matthew 18:21-22 meaning. Peter asks Jesus where he should set the limits of his mercy toward his brother and suggested that he should forgive him up to seven times. Jesus said no, do not put limits on your forgiveness, and told Peter to forgive his brother as many times as needed without any limitation whatsoever.
  • Luke 23:1-2 meaning. The Priests bring and accuse Jesus to Pilate. Not permitted to execute Jesus themselves, the Sanhedrin brings Jesus to Pilate early in the morning for His Roman or Civil Trial. They present three charges against Jesus: He is misleading the nation; He teaches people to not pay their taxes; He claims to be a king. The third accusation is the most serious and the one that the trial chiefly pursues. This event is part of the first phase of Jesus’s Civil Trial. It is known as Jesus’s Arraignment before Pilate.
  • John 18:28-32 meaning. The Priests bring and accuse Jesus to Pilate: Not permitted by Roman law to execute Jesus themselves, the Jews bring Jesus to the Roman governor Pilate early in the morning for His Roman (or Civil) Trial. Pilate begins the proceedings asking them what accusation they bring against the Man. When they have none, Pilate appears to dismiss the case and tells them to judge Him according to their own customs. They complain they are unable to judge Him because Rome won’t permit them to put Him to death. This fulfills Jesus’s prophecies predicting He would be crucified. This event is part of the first phase of Jesus’s Civil Trial. It is known as Jesus’s Arraignment before Pilate.