Luke 18
BSB1 Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray at all times and not lose heart: 2 “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected men. 3 And there was a widow in that town who kept appealing to him, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ 4 For a while he refused, but later he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect men, 5 yet because this widow keeps pestering me, I will give her justice. Then she will stop wearing me out with her perpetual requests.’" 6 And the Lord said, “Listen to the words of the unjust judge. 7 Will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night? Will He continue to defer their help? 8 I tell you, He will promptly carry out justice on their behalf. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?" 9 To some who trusted in their own righteousness and viewed others with contempt, He also told this parable: 10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like the other men—swindlers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week and pay tithes of all that I acquire.’ 13 But the tax collector stood at a distance, unwilling even to lift up his eyes to heaven. Instead, he beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner!’ 14 I tell you, this man, rather than the Pharisee, went home justified. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted." 15 Now people were even bringing their babies to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them. And when the disciples saw this, they rebuked those who brought them. 16 But Jesus called the children to Him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 17 Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." 18 Then a certain ruler asked Him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" 19 “Why do you call Me good?” Jesus replied. “No one is good except God alone. 20 You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not bear false witness, honor your father and mother.’ “ 21 “All these I have kept from my youth,” he said. 22 On hearing this, Jesus told him, “You still lack one thing: Sell everything you own and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me." 23 But when the ruler heard this, he became very sad, because he was extremely wealthy. 24 Seeing the man’s sadness, Jesus said, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God! 25 Indeed, it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." 26 Those who heard this asked, “Who then can be saved?" 27 But Jesus said, “What is impossible with man is possible with God." 28 “Look,” said Peter, “we have left all we had to follow You." 29 “Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God 30 will fail to receive many times more in this age—and in the age to come, eternal life." 31 Then Jesus took the Twelve aside and said to them, “Look, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything the prophets have written about the Son of Man will be fulfilled. 32 He will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and insulted and spit upon. 33 They will flog Him and kill Him, and on the third day He will rise again." 34 But the disciples did not understand any of these things. The meaning was hidden from them, and they did not comprehend what He was saying. 35 As Jesus drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting beside the road, begging. 36 When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening. 37 “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by,” they told him. 38 So he called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" 39 Those who led the way admonished him to be silent, but he cried out all the louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!" 40 Jesus stopped and directed that the man be brought to Him. When he had been brought near, Jesus asked him, 41 “What do you want Me to do for you?” “Lord,” he said, “let me see again." 42 “Receive your sight!” Jesus replied. “Your faith has healed you." 43 Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, glorifying God. And all the people who saw this gave praise to God.
Study Notes — Luke 18
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Luke 18
- Themes from Luke 18
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Luke 18
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Luke chapter 18 begins with the parable of the persistent widow, teaching the disciples to pray always and not lose heart. Jesus then tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, highlighting the importance of humility in prayer. The chapter also includes the story of Jesus' encounter with a rich ruler, who is unable to follow Jesus due to his attachment to wealth. Additionally, Jesus heals a blind beggar and predicts his own death and resurrection for the third time. The chapter concludes with Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where he is hailed as the King of Israel.
Context for the Chapter
Luke chapter 18 is part of the larger narrative of Jesus' journey to Jerusalem, where he will ultimately face rejection and crucifixion. The chapter is situated between Jesus' teachings on discipleship and his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, highlighting the contrast between his humble service and the crowds' expectations of a messianic king.
Heart Application
This chapter challenges us to examine our own prayer life and approach to God. Are we praying with persistence and humility, or are we prone to self-righteousness and pride? May we learn from Jesus' teachings and example to cultivate a deeper dependence on God and a more humble heart.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Luke chapter 18 teaches us to pray with persistence and humility, recognizing our dependence on God. Jesus demonstrates his compassion and mercy through his healing of the blind beggar, and he predicts his own death and resurrection. May we learn from Jesus' teachings and example to cultivate a deeper faith and a more humble heart.
Voices from the Church
“The prayer of the tax collector is a model for our own prayers, as it is characterized by humility, repentance, and a recognition of our dependence on God's mercy.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The parable of the persistent widow teaches us to pray always and not lose heart, for God is a faithful and just Judge who will ultimately vindicate his people.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8) — Jesus teaches his disciples to pray always and not lose heart, using the parable of the persistent widow to illustrate the importance of perseverance in prayer.
- The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9-14) — Jesus highlights the contrast between self-righteousness and humility in prayer, using the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector to teach his disciples about the importance of humility.
- Jesus' encounter with the rich ruler (Luke 18:18-30) — Jesus teaches about the difficulty of the rich entering the kingdom of God, and he calls the ruler to follow him and leave behind his wealth.
- The healing of the blind beggar (Luke 18:35-43) — Jesus demonstrates his compassion and mercy through his healing of the blind beggar, who recognizes Jesus as the Son of David and praises God for his healing.
- Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Luke 18:35-19:44) — Jesus enters Jerusalem as the King of Israel, hailed by the crowds as the Son of David. However, he weeps over the city, recognizing its impending judgment and destruction.
Core Doctrines
- The importance of prayer in the Christian life
- Luke chapter 18 emphasizes the importance of persistent and humble prayer in the Christian life, teaching us to approach God with confidence and dependence on his mercy.
- The doctrine of humility
- The chapter highlights the importance of humility in our relationship with God, using the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector to contrast self-righteousness and humility.
- The doctrine of faith
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus' teachings and miracles, as seen in the healing of the blind beggar and the response of the disciples to Jesus' predictions.
- The doctrine of compassion and mercy
- Jesus demonstrates his compassion and mercy through his healing of the blind beggar, teaching us about the importance of showing kindness and mercy to those in need.
Lessons from Luke 18
- The importance of persistent prayer — Luke chapter 18 teaches us to pray always and not lose heart, recognizing God's faithfulness and justice.
- The danger of self-righteousness — The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector warns us against self-righteousness and pride, teaching us to approach God with humility and repentance.
- The importance of faith in Jesus' teachings and miracles — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus' teachings and miracles, as seen in the healing of the blind beggar and the response of the disciples to Jesus' predictions.
- The importance of compassion and mercy — Jesus demonstrates his compassion and mercy through his healing of the blind beggar, teaching us about the importance of showing kindness and mercy to those in need.
- The significance of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem — Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem highlights his role as the King of Israel and the Son of David, and it has significant implications for our own lives and service to God.
Themes from Luke 18
- Prayer and dependence on God — Luke chapter 18 emphasizes the importance of persistent and humble prayer in the Christian life, teaching us to approach God with confidence and dependence on his mercy.
- Humility and self-righteousness — The chapter highlights the contrast between humility and self-righteousness, teaching us to approach God with humility and repentance.
- Faith and trust in Jesus — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus' teachings and miracles, as seen in the healing of the blind beggar and the response of the disciples to Jesus' predictions.
- Compassion and mercy — Jesus demonstrates his compassion and mercy through his healing of the blind beggar, teaching us about the importance of showing kindness and mercy to those in need.
- The kingdom of God and Jesus' mission — The chapter highlights Jesus' role as the King of Israel and the Son of David, and it has significant implications for our own lives and service to God.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways in which we can cultivate a more persistent and humble prayer life, as taught in Luke 18:1-8?
- How does the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector challenge our own approach to prayer and our relationship with God?
- What are some ways in which we can demonstrate compassion and mercy to those in need, as seen in Jesus' healing of the blind beggar?
- How does Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem relate to his mission and message, and what are some implications for our own lives and service to God?
- What are some ways in which we can apply the teachings of Luke chapter 18 to our own lives and relationships, particularly in terms of prayer, humility, and compassion?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8)
| Luke 18:1 | Jesus tells a parable to teach his disciples to pray always and not lose heart, using the example of a persistent widow who seeks justice from a judge. |
| Luke 18:2 | The judge is unwilling to grant the widow's request, but she persists in her petition until he finally relents. |
2. The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9-14)
| Luke 18:9 | Jesus tells a parable to teach his disciples about the importance of humility in prayer, using the example of a Pharisee and a tax collector. |
| Luke 18:10 | The Pharisee prays with pride and self-justification, while the tax collector prays with humility and repentance. |
3. Jesus' encounter with the rich ruler (Luke 18:18-30)
| Luke 18:18 | A rich ruler asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life, and Jesus teaches him about the importance of following God's commandments and surrendering his wealth. |
| Luke 18:22 | The ruler is unable to follow Jesus' teachings and leaves, saddened by his attachment to his wealth. |
4. The healing of the blind beggar (Luke 18:35-43)
| Luke 18:35 | As Jesus approaches Jericho, a blind beggar asks him for mercy and healing, recognizing him as the Son of David. |
| Luke 18:38 | The beggar persists in his request, despite the crowds' attempts to silence him, and Jesus heals him and praises God for his faith. |
5. Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Luke 18:35-19:44)
| Luke 18:35 | As Jesus approaches Jerusalem, the crowds hail him as the King of Israel and the Son of David, throwing palm branches and cloaks in his path. |
| Luke 19:41 | However, Jesus weeps over the city, recognizing its impending judgment and destruction, and he enters the temple to teach and cleanse it of its corruption. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Luke chapter 18?
The main theme of Luke chapter 18 is the importance of persistent and humble prayer in the Christian life, as well as the contrast between self-righteousness and humility. (Luke 18:1-8, 9-14)
What is the significance of Jesus' healing of the blind beggar?
Jesus' healing of the blind beggar demonstrates his compassion and mercy, and it highlights the importance of faith and trust in Jesus' teachings and miracles. (Luke 18:35-43)
What is the significance of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem?
Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem highlights his role as the King of Israel and the Son of David, and it has significant implications for our own lives and service to God. (Luke 18:35-19:44)
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Luke 18:1 → Matthew 7:7-8 | The parable of the persistent widow is similar to Jesus' teaching on prayer in Matthew 7:7-8, where he encourages his disciples to ask, seek, and knock with persistence and confidence. |
| 2 | Luke 18:9 → Matthew 23:23-24 | The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector is similar to Jesus' teaching on the Pharisees in Matthew 23:23-24, where he condemns their hypocrisy and self-righteousness. |
| 3 | Luke 18:18 → Mark 10:17-22 | Jesus' encounter with the rich ruler is similar to his encounter with the rich young man in Mark 10:17-22, where he teaches about the difficulty of the rich entering the kingdom of God. |
| 4 | Luke 18:35 → Matthew 20:29-34 | The healing of the blind beggar is similar to Jesus' healing of the two blind men in Matthew 20:29-34, where he demonstrates his compassion and mercy. |
| 5 | Luke 18:35 → John 12:12-19 | Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem is similar to his entry into Jerusalem in John 12:12-19, where he is hailed as the King of Israel and the Son of David. |
| 6 | Luke 18:1 → Psalm 27:14 | The parable of the persistent widow is similar to the teaching of Psalm 27:14, which encourages the reader to wait on God and trust in his faithfulness. |
| 7 | Luke 18:9 → Isaiah 66:2 | The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector is similar to the teaching of Isaiah 66:2, which emphasizes the importance of humility and repentance in prayer. |
| 8 | Luke 18:18 → Proverbs 30:8-9 | Jesus' encounter with the rich ruler is similar to the teaching of Proverbs 30:8-9, which warns against the dangers of wealth and materialism. |
| 9 | Luke 18:35 → Psalm 146:8 | The healing of the blind beggar is similar to the teaching of Psalm 146:8, which emphasizes God's compassion and mercy towards those in need. |
| 10 | Luke 18:35 → Zechariah 9:9 | Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem is similar to the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, which foretells the coming of the King of Israel and the Son of David. |
Sermons on Luke 18
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(1 Peter - Part 2): God's Abundant Mercy by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher begins by describing a man who wanted to look presentable before going to a fine place. However, he was rejected because the artist wanted him as he wa |
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Repentance in Kansas City by Andrew Strom | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the state of Christian meetings and how they often fail to truly impact people. He emphasizes the need for authenticity and a genuine encoun |
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The Burdens of Ravenhill - Part 3 (Compilation) by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon transcript, the speaker, Brother Ravenhill, engages in a conversation with a man named Brother Singh about the procedure in his church service. Brother Singh describ |
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Cost of Worship - Part 1 by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker begins by describing how he was sitting on the front seat in the synagogue. He then repeatedly emphasizes the importance of reading the gospel of Luke. |
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Lukewarm and Loving It! by Francis Chan | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of overcoming worldly desires and focusing on the treasure of God's kingdom. He refers to the book of Revelation, where those |
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A Bride Adorned for the Bridegroom by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of Christians becoming desensitized to the world and accepting its norms. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining sensitivity to |
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The Lord Will Fight for You by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and having faith in Him. He encourages the congregation to look back on their lives and see the many times |
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Lend Me Your Life by Alan Redpath | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of the church waking up from its comfortable and complacent state. He uses the analogy of God knocking on the door of a sleeping |
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Intercessory Prayer - Part 2 by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being zealous and passionate in spreading the word of God. He criticizes those who claim to have the best thing in the worl |
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A Cry Without a Voice by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about his grandchildren and the importance of intercessory prayer in bringing our loved ones to Jesus. He emphasizes that there |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Luke 18
In this chapter, Jesus teaches his disciples about the importance of persistent and humble prayer, using the parable of the persistent widow to illustrate the need for perseverance in prayer. He also highlights the contrast between self-righteousness and humility, using the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector to teach about the importance of humility in prayer. Additionally, Jesus demonstrates his compassion and mercy through his healing of the blind beggar, and he predicts his own death and resurrection. The chapter concludes with Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where he is hailed as the King of Israel and the Son of David. Matthew Henry notes that this chapter teaches us about the importance of faith, humility, and compassion in the Christian life, and it highlights Jesus' role as the suffering Servant of God. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Contrast between the Pharisee and the tax collector
The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector highlights the contrast between self-righteousness and humility in prayer. The Pharisee's prayer is characterized by pride and self-justification, while the tax collector's prayer is marked by humility and repentance.
Jesus' predictions of his own death and resurrection
Jesus' predictions of his own death and resurrection demonstrate his awareness of his mission and his willingness to suffer for the sake of his people.
The importance of faith in Jesus' teachings and miracles
The chapter highlights the importance of faith in Jesus' teachings and miracles, as seen in the healing of the blind beggar and the response of the disciples to Jesus' predictions.