What does Luke 18:5 mean?

Explanation

This verse comes from the Parable of the Unjust Judge (also known as the Parable of the Persistent Widow) which is part of a teaching of Jesus about the need for persistent prayer and faith.

In the parable, a widow repeatedly approaches an unjust judge and asks for justice against her adversary.

The judge, who neither fears God nor respects people, initially refuses her.

However, he eventually gives in, not because of justice or compassion, but to avoid being worn out by her persistent requests.

The literal meaning of the verse shows the judge's decision to grant the widow's plea simply to avoid the annoyance of her continual coming.

The deeper meaning that Jesus is illustrating is the contrast between the unjust judge and God.

If even an unjust judge will eventually grant justice, then how much more will God, who is just and compassionate, answer the prayers of those who cry out to Him day and night?

Historical Context

The parable is located in the Gospel of Luke, set in first-century Judea during the Roman occupation.

In this society, widows were particularly vulnerable and had limited means to defend themselves legally or socially.

Judges played a key role in society and were expected to be models of equity and fairness.

However, the judge in the parable does not fear God nor respect people, indicating a corruption of the ideals of the time. The historical context stresses the social and legal struggles of widows, the importance of justice, and the expectation of judges to uphold righteousness.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse and the parable offer several insights. One viewpoint focuses on God's justice, where God is portrayed as the ultimate just judge in contrast to the unjust human judge. Another viewpoint emphasizes the importance of perseverance in prayer.

It suggests that followers of Jesus should not lose heart but continue to pray with confidence, trusting in God's timing and goodness.

Additionally, the parable can be seen as commentary on divine patience and willingness to respond to human needs, even if human systems of justice are flawed.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse can serve as an encouragement for individuals to remain steadfast in their petitions and prayers to God, especially in situations that seem hopeless or when justice appears delayed.

It reminds believers of the value of perseverance and patient trust in God’s providence.

Additionally, it challenges individuals to reflect on their own practices of justice and fairness in everyday interactions, aspiring to align with the just nature of God rather than the unjust judge's example.

Cross-References

• Matthew 7:7-8: "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."
• 1 Thessalonians 5:17: "Pray without ceasing."
• Psalm 145:18: "The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth."
• Exodus 22:22-24: "Ye shall not afflict any widow, or fatherless child."
• Revelation 6:10: "And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?"

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the judge's words are significant:

• "troubleth" (from the Greek "kopos") can be taken to mean "beat," signifying the judge felt beaten down or worn out.
• "avenge" (from the Greek "ekdikesis") refers to justice being rendered or vindication given.
• "continual coming" reflects persistence and constant action.

Each term deepens the understanding of the widow's relentless pursuit of justice and the judge's feelings of being harassed.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the cultural context of the Ancient Near East (ANE), including Jewish society, the parable has echoes of the commonly found powerful vs. powerless dynamic.

Similar narratives exist in various ancient myths where persistence leads to victory.

In some religious interpretations, persistent prayer is a common motif, often seen as a reflection of the believer’s faith and commitment to their deity.

The story of Hannah in the Old Testament, who persistently prayed for a son, could also be seen as a parallel (1 Samuel 1:10-20).

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically speaking, this verse touches upon concepts such as resilience and the psychology of persuasion through repetition, principles that can be observed and studied in behavioral psychology.

The "foot-in-the-door" technique is a similar concept in social psychology, where making a small request first increases the likelihood of agreeing to a second, larger request.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars have offered various interpretations of this verse and the parable.

Some emphasize the contrast between God and the unjust judge, suggesting that if persistence can move even those who are unjust, how much more effective it is with a compassionate God.

Others focus on the role of the widow, her status in society, and what her perseverance represents for the socially marginalized.

Commentators like William Barclay note the parable's demonstration of God's open ear to human pleas, while authors like Joel B. Green suggest the parable is designed to encourage Luke's audience to trust in God’s ultimate deliverance.