Luke 18:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 18:2
2 Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man:
Chapter Context
Luke 18 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, holiness, hope. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 18:2
2 Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man:
Analysis
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.
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.
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?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: Luke 18:4
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 29:7