Luke 18:4

And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man;

Luke 18:4 (KJV)

Context

Luke 18:4 is part of the parable of the persistent widow, which Jesus told to teach His disciples that they ought always to pray and not lose heart (Luke 18:1). In the parable, a widow repeatedly appeals to an unjust judge for justice against her adversary. The judge is described in verse 2 as one who feared not God, neither regarded man. Verse 4 records the judge’s initial refusal and his subsequent internal reasoning: he would not for a while, but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man.

Meaning

The phrase “for a while” indicates a considerable delay, during which the judge gave no ear to the widow’s cries, did not take up her cause, and did not right her wrongs. His self-talk reveals his character: he openly acknowledges that he neither fears God nor regards man, making him utterly self-centered and indifferent to both divine and human claims. The judge’s motivation for eventually acting is not justice or duty but his own convenience, as he fears being worn out by the widow’s continual coming (Luke 18:5). This verse sets up the contrast with God, who is just and attentive to His elect who cry day and night to Him (Luke 18:7).

Biblical connections

The unjust judge represents a stark contrast to God. While the judge initially ignores the widow’s plea, God is just and loving, attentive to the cries of His people. This parable assures believers that God is faithful and will answer their prayers in His perfect timing. The judge’s lack of fear of God and regard for man highlights the depravity of human injustice, while the widow’s persistence serves as a model for believers.

Application

• Persevere in prayer: Luke 18:4 encourages believers to persist in their prayer life. Even when it feels like God is silent, continue seeking Him and presenting your requests with faith.

• Trust in God’s justice: The parable assures believers that God will eventually bring justice and vindication. Trust that He sees and hears your prayers and has a perfect plan in place.

• Practice self-reflection: The judge’s admission of his lack of fear for God and regard for man highlights the importance of genuine self-assessment. Take time to honestly evaluate your relationship with God and others, and seek to cultivate a heart that fears God and regards others with love and compassion.

Reflection

The judge’s words expose a heart that answers to no one. Yet the widow’s persistent plea moves even him. If an unjust judge eventually responds, how much more will a just and loving God hear His people who cry to Him day and night? Let this truth encourage you to bring every need before the Lord with patient faith, knowing that He is not reluctant but faithful.