Luke 18:2
Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man:
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Roman-occupied Judea suffered from corrupt judicial systems. Local judges often accepted bribes and perverted justice. The prophets consistently condemned unjust judges (Isaiah 1:23, Micah 3:11). This judge represents the worst possible scenario—no fear of divine judgment, no concern for public opinion, driven entirely by selfishness. Yet even he eventually grants justice. Jesus uses this extreme negative example to teach about God's character by contrast: if the worst judge can be moved to act justly, infinitely more will the righteous, loving heavenly Father respond to His children's persistent prayers. The parable doesn't compare God to the unjust judge but contrasts them.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the unjust judge's character emphasize God's goodness by contrast?
- What does this parable teach about persistence in prayer when answers seem delayed?
- How should understanding God's justice and compassion shape your prayer life?
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus describes the judge: 'Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man.' This judge had two defining characteristics: he 'feared not God' (τὸν θεὸν μὴ φοβούμενος, ton theon mē phoboumenos) and he 'regarded not man' (ἄνθρωπον μὴ ἐντρεπόμενος, anthrōpon mē entrepomenos, didn't respect people). He was utterly corrupt—answerable to no one, driven purely by self-interest. Such judges were common in first-century Palestine under Roman occupation—appointed officials who exploited their positions for personal gain. If even this worst possible judge eventually grants justice (v. 5), how much more will the perfectly just and compassionate God answer His children's prayers? The parable argues from lesser to greater.