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Luke 18:7
Verse
Context
The Parable of the Persistent Widow
6And the Lord said, “Listen to the words of the unjust judge.7Will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night? Will He continue to defer their help?8I tell you, He will promptly carry out justice on their behalf. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?”
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And shall not God avenge his own elect - And will not God the righteous Judge do justice for his chosen? Probably this may refer to the cruel usage which his disciples had met with, and were still receiving, from the disobedient and unbelieving Jews; and which should be finally visited upon them in the destruction of their city, and the calamities which should follow. But we may consider the text as having a more extensive meaning. As God has graciously promised to give salvation to every soul that comes unto him through his Son, and has put his Spirit in their hearts, inducing them to cry unto him incessantly for it; the goodness of his nature and the promise of his grace bind him to hear the prayers they offer unto him, and to grant them all that salvation which he has led them by his promise and Spirit to request. Which cry day and night unto him, etc. - This is a genuine characteristic of the true elect or disciples of Christ. They feel they have neither light, power, nor goodness, but as they receive them from him; and, as he is the desire of their soul, they incessantly seek that they may be upheld and saved by him. Though he bear long with them? - Rather, and He is compassionate towards Them, and consequently not at all like to the unrighteous judge. Instead of μακροθυμων, and be long-suffering, as in our translation, I read μακροθυμει, he is compassionate, which reading is supported by ABDLQ, and several others. The reason which our Lord gives for the success of his chosen, is, 1. They cry unto him day and night. 2. He is compassionate towards Them. In consequence of the first, they might expect justice even from an unrighteous judge; and, in consequence of the second, they are sure of salvation, because they ask it from that God who is towards them a Father of eternal love and compassion. There was little reason to expect justice from the unrighteous judge. 1. Because he was unrighteous; and 2. Because he had no respect for man: no, not even for a poor desolate widow. But there is all the reason under heaven to expect mercy from God: 1. Because he is righteous, and he has promised it; and 2. Because he is compassionate towards his creatures; being ever prone to give more than the most enlarged heart can request of him. Every reader must perceive that the common translation is so embarrassed as to be almost unintelligible; while that in this note, from the above authorities, is as plain as possible, and shows this beautiful parable to be one of the most invaluable pieces in the word of God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
shall not God--not unjust, but the infinitely righteous Judge. avenge--redeem from oppression. his own elect--not like this widow, the object of indifference and contempt, but dear to Him as the apple of the eye (Zac 2:8). cry day and night--whose every cry enters into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth (Jam 5:4), and how much more their incessant and persevering cries! bear long with them--rather, "in their case," or "on their account" (as) Jam 5:7, "for it"), [GROTIUS, DE WETTE, &c.].
John Gill Bible Commentary
And shall not God avenge his own elect,.... Who are a select number, a special people, whom he has loved with an everlasting love, so as of his own sovereign good will and pleasure to choose in his Son Jesus Christ unto everlasting life and salvation, through certain ways and means of his own appointing, hence they are peculiarly his: and these he will avenge and vindicate, right their wrongs, do them justice, and deliver them from their adversaries, and take vengeance on them; as may be concluded from his hatred of sin, his justice, and his holiness, from his promises, and from his power, and from the efficacy of prayer, and the regard he has to it: for it follows, which cry unto him day and night; whose prayers he always hears; whose tears he puts up in his bottle; and whose importunity must surely be thought to have more regard with him, than that of the poor widow with the unjust judge: though he bear long with them? either with their adversaries, their oppressors, and persecutors, who are vessels of wrath, fitted for destruction, whom he endures with much longsuffering, till the sufferings of his people are accomplished, and the iniquities of these men are full; or rather with the elect, for the words may be rendered, "and is longsuffering towards them": delays his coming, and the execution of vengeance, as on the Jewish nation, so upon the whole world of the ungodly, till his elect are gathered in from among them; see Pe2 3:9.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
18:7 God will surely give justice: If persistence resulted in justice from this unjust judge, how much more will God, who loves both people and justice, answer our prayers.
Luke 18:7
The Parable of the Persistent Widow
6And the Lord said, “Listen to the words of the unjust judge.7Will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night? Will He continue to defer their help?8I tell you, He will promptly carry out justice on their behalf. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Choose Your Overcomer: Christ or the Flesh
By Hans R. Waldvogel2.4K35:04OvercomingLUK 18:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being watchful and prepared for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. He uses a story about a man who was supposed to be watching for a lion but fell asleep, allowing the lion to enter a car and attack the others inside. The preacher relates this to the need for Christians to be vigilant and ready for the return of Jesus. He also discusses the concept of knowing Jesus Christ and experiencing Him in order to have eternal life. The sermon concludes with a call for believers to choose to serve and allow Jesus to reign within them.
The Root of Sin
By Zac Poonen1.9K55:59SinLUK 18:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing and understanding the true nature of God. He shares his own experience of living in condemnation and believing that God was angry with him. However, he came to realize that God's love and desire to bless and help him were far greater than he had imagined. The speaker highlights the significance of turning away from false beliefs and laying the axe to the root of the problem in order to fully embrace the New Covenant life. He encourages believers to seek a true knowledge of God and to cry out to Him day and night for holiness. The sermon draws from the book of Judges and the teachings of Jesus to emphasize God's willingness to do anything to help believers overcome sin and live a godly life.
The Apocalypse - Revelation 6a (The First Five Seals)
By Steve Gallagher1.1K39:18Apocalypse StudyPSA 11:4MAT 19:28LUK 18:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the opening of the scroll in the book of Revelation. There are two main perspectives on how the seals on the scroll are opened. One view suggests that each seal opens one by one, leading to unfolding events. The other view suggests that all seven seals must be opened before the scroll can be fully opened. The speaker emphasizes the importance of staying close to the truth and not getting caught up in cynicism. The sermon also explores the fifth seal, which reveals the souls of those who were slain for their faith, crying out for justice. The speaker connects this to the Old Testament verse in Ezekiel, highlighting the various means of death mentioned, such as warfare, famine, wild beasts, and plague. The sermon concludes by acknowledging the significance of these events and the need to be expectant for the return of the Lord.
God Is Our Refuge
By Chuck Smith1.1K25:03RefugePSA 94:1LUK 18:7ROM 12:19EPH 3:16In this video, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the importance of seeking refuge in God. He begins by reading from Psalm 94 and emphasizes that God is our ultimate refuge and source of strength. Pastor Chuck encourages listeners to experience the love and grace of God in their lives and to share that love with others. He also addresses the topic of Halloween and provides a DVD resource for Christians to learn more about its origins and potential spiritual deception.
How Jesus Builds His Church
By Zac Poonen6821:12:43JER 29:13MAT 16:18LUK 18:7LUK 18:27PHP 2:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of each individual in building the church by taking up their cross daily, denying themselves, and following Jesus. It highlights the need to pursue humility, godliness, and contentment, while rejecting the voice of Satan that hinders the way of the cross. The message encourages believers to seek God's interests over their own, to give up their self-life, and to cry out to God day and night for an anointing and a life that glorifies Him.
Tongues of Fire and the Fullness of God
By John Piper62640:52Book Of ActsPSA 85:6ISA 64:1MAT 6:33LUK 18:7ACT 2:1ACT 4:31EPH 5:18In this sermon, the speaker argues that the promise of the Holy Spirit in Acts 1-8 is still valid and necessary until the Great Commission is completed. The speaker supports this argument by pointing to historical examples of breakthroughs in world evangelization that occurred through the extraordinary outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The speaker also emphasizes that the power promised in Acts 1-8 is not ordinary power, but rather an extraordinary empowerment for the purpose of completing the Great Commission. The sermon concludes with a personal testimony of D.L. Moody, who experienced a powerful encounter with God that resulted in numerous conversions and a deep desire for more of God's power.
Necessity of Intercessory Missionaries
By Mike Bickle711:09:32Intercessory PrayerGlobal MissionsIntercessionLUK 18:7REV 5:8Mike Bickle emphasizes the critical role of intercessory prayer in the global missions movement, asserting that intercession is not a separate activity but central to the work of missionaries. He highlights the growing worldwide prayer movement and the necessity of night and day prayer to bring about justice and transformation in cities. Bickle calls for a new generation of intercessors, likening them to Anna from the Bible, who dedicated her life to prayer and intercession. He stresses that the effectiveness of evangelism and mercy deeds is significantly enhanced when supported by a strong prayer foundation. Ultimately, he encourages believers to embrace their calling as intercessors, as this is vital for the fulfillment of the Great Commission.
The End-Time Worship Movement: Full-Time Singers and Musicians
By Mike Bickle271:01:24Prayer CultureEnd-Time WorshipISA 56:7LUK 18:7Mike Bickle emphasizes the emergence of the End-Time Worship Movement, calling for a generation of full-time singers and musicians dedicated to worship and prayer. He asserts that the Holy Spirit is raising up a global movement where the entire body of Christ will function as a house of prayer, essential for the church's survival and effectiveness in the last days. Bickle warns that any ministry lacking a culture of prayer will cease to exist, urging believers to develop a spirit of prayer and support the worship movement financially. He highlights the biblical precedent set by King David in establishing full-time worship and the necessity of justice through prayer in the end times. The sermon concludes with a call to action for individuals to commit to funding this movement and to embrace their roles in the coming revival.
The Necessity of Intercessory Missionaries
By Mike Bickle251:09:32Intercessory PrayerGlobal MissionsLUK 18:7REV 5:8Mike Bickle emphasizes the critical role of intercessory prayer in the global missions movement, asserting that intercession is not a separate activity but central to the work of missionaries. He highlights the growing worldwide prayer movement and the necessity of night and day prayer to bring about justice and transformation in cities. Bickle calls for a new generation of intercessors, likening them to Anna from the Bible, who dedicated her life to prayer and intercession. He stresses that the effectiveness of evangelism and mercy deeds is significantly enhanced when undergirded by persistent prayer. Ultimately, he encourages believers to embrace their calling as intercessors, as this is vital for the fulfillment of the Great Commission and the return of Christ.
Pray Daily: Connecting With God While Changing the World
By Mike Bickle2359:19PrayerIntimacy With GodISA 30:18HOS 14:2LUK 18:7PHP 4:6JAS 4:2Mike Bickle emphasizes the vital role of daily prayer in connecting with God and transforming the world. He explains that prayer is not just a routine but a profound privilege that energizes our spirit and aligns us with God's heart. Bickle encourages believers to commit to regular prayer times, develop prayer lists, and maintain a right view of God to deepen their relationship with Him. He highlights that intercession is essential for releasing God's power and that prayer should be a dialogue with God, integrating scripture into our conversations with Him. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a deeper understanding of God's heart to sustain a vibrant prayer life.
How Long Is This Valley?
By Richard E. Bieber01KI 19:1PSA 13:1PSA 23:4JER 12:1HAB 1:2LUK 18:7Richard E. Bieber preaches about the journey from receiving a vision from God to seeing that vision become a reality in our lives, emphasizing the necessity of passing through valleys where the vision is shaped and formed within us. He highlights the importance of not avoiding these valleys but rather committing ourselves to Jesus to allow Him to work in us. Using examples from the lives of biblical figures like Elijah, Jeremiah, and Habakkuk, he encourages believers to express their feelings to God, hold on to the vision, and practice God's presence in the midst of long valleys, ultimately turning them into places of glory.
Characteristics of Prayer in the End Times
By Mike Bickle0ISA 24:14ISA 61:2ISA 62:6MAT 24:14LUK 18:7REV 5:12REV 22:17Mike Bickle preaches on the importance of the end-time prayer and worship movement, emphasizing the need for the Church to partner with Jesus in intercession for the end-time harvest. The movement, led by the Holy Spirit, is growing globally, with believers embracing the 'Anna calling' to be intercessory missionaries. This movement will be characterized by its God-centered, relational, continual, musical, global, missional, and intergenerational nature, expressing worship 'on earth as it is in heaven' in preparation for Jesus' return.
Glorious Grace
By Thomas Bradbury0LUK 18:7ROM 11:5EPH 1:62TI 1:9TIT 2:11TIT 3:7Thomas Bradbury preaches about the all-encompassing grace of God, emphasizing that in every epistle of Paul, grace abounds and is essential for salvation and acceptance in the Beloved, Jesus Christ. He highlights the jealousy of the Apostle Paul over this grace and the need for allegiance to the King of grace. Bradbury delves into the significance of Christ as the Beloved, emphasizing the Father's love for Him and His role as the Sovereign Dispenser of grace. He concludes by exploring the concept of being 'accepted in the Beloved,' showcasing how grace, unmerited favor, and salvation through Christ are central to the believer's standing before God.
Cease Not to Cry Unto the Lord Our God
By F.B. Meyer0The Power of PrayerPersistence in Faith1SA 7:8LUK 18:7F.B. Meyer emphasizes the power of persistent prayer in his sermon 'Cease Not to Cry Unto the Lord Our God,' drawing inspiration from Samuel's life as a man of prayer who interceded for Israel. He highlights that true blessings and spiritual awakenings come through fervent and expectant prayer, as demonstrated by historical figures like John Knox and Reginald Radcliffe. Meyer urges believers to remain steadfast in their cries to God, reminding them that just as God avenged the widow, He will respond to His elect who pray day and night. The sermon calls for a renewed commitment to continuous prayer, following the example of Jesus, who prayed at all times. Ultimately, Meyer challenges the congregation to reflect on their prayer lives and the necessity of ceaseless communication with God.
The Effect of Such Prayer
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual WarfareThe Power of PrayerLUK 18:7Watchman Nee emphasizes the profound impact of prayer in opposing Satan, illustrating that each prayer not only limits the enemy's power in the present but also contributes to his ultimate defeat. He explains that while our prayers invoke the victory of the cross and rebuke the devil, they also play a crucial role in hastening God's final judgment against Satan. Nee encourages believers to persist in prayer, as it is through their cries that God's avenging work is accelerated. He highlights the importance of collaboration between God and His children, asserting that divine action is often contingent upon human response. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper commitment to prayer as a means of spiritual warfare and anticipation of Christ's return.
Chosen, Called, and Cared For
By Thomas Bradbury0MAT 5:45LUK 18:7JHN 6:37ACT 9:1ACT 27:232TI 2:132TI 4:16Thomas Bradbury preaches on the profound truths of God's sovereign election, emphasizing the Father's gracious choice of His people, the irresistible calling of the elect to Christ, and the eternal security and preservation of those who come to Him. He highlights the exclusivity of God's liberality and benevolence, contrasting it with the sectarian spirit of the world. Bradbury delves into the story of Saul of Tarsus, illustrating how even the most vehement persecutors can be transformed by Christ's love and grace, never to be cast out. He reassures believers that despite their weaknesses, doubts, and failures, Christ's faithfulness and promise to never cast them out remain unwavering.
Forsaken and Found
By Thomas Bradbury0EXO 17:81SA 30:11PSA 25:11PSA 68:12PSA 139:23MAT 25:34LUK 18:7ROM 5:10ROM 8:28GAL 5:17COL 2:3REV 19:16Thomas Bradbury preaches on the marvellous grace of Jehovah-Jesus revealed in the narrative of David finding an Egyptian in the field. The sermon highlights the kindness and compassion of God, pointing to the Lord Jesus Christ in all aspects of the Bible. Every child of God is led into all necessary truth by the Holy Spirit, despite their varying qualities and experiences, as they are sustained by the covenant provisions of Jehovah. The narrative of David's distress, the burning of Ziklag, and the recovery of all lost possessions symbolize the spiritual journey of believers facing trials, enemies, and the need for divine intervention.
Light in the Valley
By Richard E. Bieber0PSA 27:1PSA 139:23HAB 1:1HAB 3:17LUK 18:7Richard E. Bieber preaches about finding God's light, fulfillment, and joy in the midst of valleys, where everything seems to be going wrong. Using examples from the lives of Moses, John the Baptist, and Jesus, he emphasizes the importance of embracing difficult times as opportunities for growth and formation into the image of Christ. The sermon encourages believers to trust that God is in control, to seek His presence daily, to rejoice in Him regardless of circumstances, and to find strength in Him to eventually emerge from the valleys prepared for higher places.
Profiting From the Word 4. the Scriptures and Prayer
By A.W. Pink0PrayerThe Importance of ScriptureZEC 12:10MAT 7:7LUK 18:7ACT 9:11ROM 8:26PHP 4:6COL 4:22TI 3:5HEB 4:16JAS 4:3A.W. Pink emphasizes the vital connection between prayer and the Scriptures, asserting that a prayerless Christian lacks spiritual life. He argues that true prayer is not merely a formality but a heartfelt communication with God, requiring the guidance of the Holy Spirit and alignment with Scripture. Pink highlights the necessity of recognizing our dependence on God, the importance of understanding His promises, and the joy that comes from genuine communion with Him in prayer. He warns against the hypocrisy of superficial prayers and calls for a deeper, more sincere approach to both prayer and the study of the Word.
George Mueller; Hudson Taylor; Light From the Inner Chamber
By Andrew Murray0PrayerFaith in GodPSA 66:18MAT 6:6MAT 8:2MRK 9:24MRK 11:24LUK 18:7JHN 14:14ROM 13:81TI 2:41JN 5:14Andrew Murray emphasizes the powerful examples of George Mueller and Hudson Taylor in demonstrating the efficacy of prayer and faith in God. Mueller's unwavering belief in God's will to save and his commitment to prayer led to remarkable answers, including the salvation of thousands and the support of his orphanages. Similarly, Taylor's journey of faith began in England, where he learned to trust God for his needs before taking on the mission field in China, ultimately leading to the establishment of a significant missionary presence. Murray encourages believers to embrace the inner chamber of prayer, recognizing it as a vital source of strength and fellowship with God, while also acknowledging the deep sinfulness that often hinders this communion. He concludes with the hope found in Christ's grace, which empowers believers to overcome their shortcomings in prayer.
Bishop Beveridge on the Great Necessity and Advantage of Public Prayer
By J.H. Newman0PSA 55:17DAN 6:10LUK 11:2LUK 18:7JAS 5:16J.H. Newman preaches about the importance of setting apart specific times each day for prayer and devotion, following the example of Daniel and King David in the Bible. He emphasizes the significance of public prayers in Christian churches, highlighting the duty of ministers to lead daily Morning and Evening Prayers for the congregation. Newman stresses the value of using the Lord's Prayer in public worship, as Christ intended it to be a communal prayer for all believers. He encourages consistent daily prayer as a means of seeking God's protection, support, and blessings for individuals and communities.
God Is Waiting Upon Us
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 27:14PSA 37:7ISA 30:18HAB 2:3LUK 18:7ROM 8:25GAL 4:4JAS 5:7Charles E. Cowman preaches about the profound concept of God waiting on us, emphasizing that our waiting upon Him is met with His gracious waiting upon us, instilling confidence that our patience will not be in vain. He explains that God's timing is perfect, likening Him to a wise husbandman who waits for the fruit to ripen before harvesting, ensuring that we are spiritually ready to receive His blessings. Cowman encourages the congregation to embrace waiting in the sunshine of God's love and under the cloud of trials, as both are essential for spiritual growth and the manifestation of God's blessings.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And shall not God avenge his own elect - And will not God the righteous Judge do justice for his chosen? Probably this may refer to the cruel usage which his disciples had met with, and were still receiving, from the disobedient and unbelieving Jews; and which should be finally visited upon them in the destruction of their city, and the calamities which should follow. But we may consider the text as having a more extensive meaning. As God has graciously promised to give salvation to every soul that comes unto him through his Son, and has put his Spirit in their hearts, inducing them to cry unto him incessantly for it; the goodness of his nature and the promise of his grace bind him to hear the prayers they offer unto him, and to grant them all that salvation which he has led them by his promise and Spirit to request. Which cry day and night unto him, etc. - This is a genuine characteristic of the true elect or disciples of Christ. They feel they have neither light, power, nor goodness, but as they receive them from him; and, as he is the desire of their soul, they incessantly seek that they may be upheld and saved by him. Though he bear long with them? - Rather, and He is compassionate towards Them, and consequently not at all like to the unrighteous judge. Instead of μακροθυμων, and be long-suffering, as in our translation, I read μακροθυμει, he is compassionate, which reading is supported by ABDLQ, and several others. The reason which our Lord gives for the success of his chosen, is, 1. They cry unto him day and night. 2. He is compassionate towards Them. In consequence of the first, they might expect justice even from an unrighteous judge; and, in consequence of the second, they are sure of salvation, because they ask it from that God who is towards them a Father of eternal love and compassion. There was little reason to expect justice from the unrighteous judge. 1. Because he was unrighteous; and 2. Because he had no respect for man: no, not even for a poor desolate widow. But there is all the reason under heaven to expect mercy from God: 1. Because he is righteous, and he has promised it; and 2. Because he is compassionate towards his creatures; being ever prone to give more than the most enlarged heart can request of him. Every reader must perceive that the common translation is so embarrassed as to be almost unintelligible; while that in this note, from the above authorities, is as plain as possible, and shows this beautiful parable to be one of the most invaluable pieces in the word of God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
shall not God--not unjust, but the infinitely righteous Judge. avenge--redeem from oppression. his own elect--not like this widow, the object of indifference and contempt, but dear to Him as the apple of the eye (Zac 2:8). cry day and night--whose every cry enters into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth (Jam 5:4), and how much more their incessant and persevering cries! bear long with them--rather, "in their case," or "on their account" (as) Jam 5:7, "for it"), [GROTIUS, DE WETTE, &c.].
John Gill Bible Commentary
And shall not God avenge his own elect,.... Who are a select number, a special people, whom he has loved with an everlasting love, so as of his own sovereign good will and pleasure to choose in his Son Jesus Christ unto everlasting life and salvation, through certain ways and means of his own appointing, hence they are peculiarly his: and these he will avenge and vindicate, right their wrongs, do them justice, and deliver them from their adversaries, and take vengeance on them; as may be concluded from his hatred of sin, his justice, and his holiness, from his promises, and from his power, and from the efficacy of prayer, and the regard he has to it: for it follows, which cry unto him day and night; whose prayers he always hears; whose tears he puts up in his bottle; and whose importunity must surely be thought to have more regard with him, than that of the poor widow with the unjust judge: though he bear long with them? either with their adversaries, their oppressors, and persecutors, who are vessels of wrath, fitted for destruction, whom he endures with much longsuffering, till the sufferings of his people are accomplished, and the iniquities of these men are full; or rather with the elect, for the words may be rendered, "and is longsuffering towards them": delays his coming, and the execution of vengeance, as on the Jewish nation, so upon the whole world of the ungodly, till his elect are gathered in from among them; see Pe2 3:9.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
18:7 God will surely give justice: If persistence resulted in justice from this unjust judge, how much more will God, who loves both people and justice, answer our prayers.