Luke 18:2

Context of Luke 18:2

Luke 18:2 introduces the central figure of Jesus' Parable of the Unjust Judge and the Persistent Widow, found in Luke 18:1-8. This parable immediately follows Jesus' teaching on the coming of the Son of Man, and its primary purpose, as stated in Luke 18:1, is "that men ought always to pray, and not to faint." The character of the judge is deliberately presented in stark contrast to God's nature, setting the stage for Jesus' powerful lesson on persistent prayer and divine justice.

Key Themes and Messages

• Moral Corruption and Lack of Accountability: The verse vividly describes a judge who operates without any moral compass. His lack of fear towards God signifies a complete disregard for divine law and ultimate judgment, while his indifference to humanity means he feels no obligation or empathy towards the people he is supposed to serve. This paints a picture of extreme self-interest and corruption, common among unjust authorities.
• Contrast with God's Character: The judge's character serves as a stark foil to God's own nature. Unlike this judge who "feared not God, neither regarded man," the Lord is presented throughout Scripture as one who is righteous, just, and deeply concerned for the afflicted. This contrast highlights the certainty of God's swift response to the prayers of His chosen ones, unlike the reluctant judge.
• Setting the Stage for Persistence: By establishing the judge as utterly unrighteous and uncaring, Jesus emphasizes the extraordinary challenge faced by the persistent widow. Her eventual success despite his character underscores the power of perseverance, particularly in prayer, and provides a powerful illustration of why we should "pray without ceasing".

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "feared not God, neither regarded man" (KJV) is a concise yet profound description of the judge's character. In the original Greek, "feared not God" is οὐ φοβούμενος τὸν θεὸν (ou phoboumenos ton theon), signifying a complete absence of reverence or awe for divine authority. This is a fundamental departure from the biblical principle that the "fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom". Similarly, "neither regarded man" is οὐδὲ ἐντρεπόμενος ἄνθρωπον (oude entrepomenos anthropon), meaning he felt no shame, respect, or even common decency towards others. This dual description perfectly encapsulates his utter lack of moral and social responsibility, making him a truly unjust figure.

Practical Application

Luke 18:2, though describing a negative example, offers valuable insights for believers today. It reminds us:

• Trust in God's Justice: Even when earthly systems or authorities seem corrupt and unresponsive, we can have absolute confidence that God is just and hears the cries of His people. He is not like the unjust judge; He is righteous and attentive.
• The Power of Persistent Prayer: The judge's character makes the widow's persistence all the more remarkable and effective. This verse sets the stage for Jesus' teaching that if even an unjust judge can be moved by persistence, how much more will a righteous God respond to His children's earnest prayers?
• Reflection on Character: It serves as a reminder for all, especially those in positions of authority, to govern with integrity, fearing God and respecting humanity, rather than succumbing to self-serving motives.