Luke 18:7 – “And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus asks a rhetorical question to drive home the main point of the parable. If even an unjust judge eventually grants justice to a persistent widow, how much more will a loving and just God answer the prayers of His people? The “chosen ones” are those who belong to God, those who have put their trust in Him. Jesus is assuring them that God will respond to their cries for help, especially when they experience injustice or suffering.
The phrase “cry out to him day and night” suggests continuous, heartfelt prayer. It implies not only persistence but also a sense of urgency and dependence on God. Jesus is teaching that although there may be delays, those delays are not signs of God’s indifference. God’s timing is perfect, and His justice will come.
Historical Context
During the time of Jesus, many of His followers were familiar with oppression, poverty, and the slow or corrupt justice systems of the Roman Empire. The idea of crying out for justice would have been very real to them, especially since the Jewish people were living under Roman occupation and were often treated unfairly.
In the Old Testament, God was frequently described as the defender of the oppressed, especially widows, orphans, and foreigners (Deuteronomy 10:18, Psalm 68:5). Jesus’ teaching in this parable builds on that understanding of God’s character. His audience would have recognized the connection between their cries for justice and God’s promise to act on behalf of His people.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights several key theological truths. First, it shows that God is a just and faithful judge. Unlike the corrupt judge in the parable, God doesn’t delay because He’s indifferent or uncaring. When God seems to delay, it’s because His timing is always aligned with His greater plan and purpose. His delays are not denials—they are often opportunities for believers to grow in faith and trust.
Second, this verse emphasizes the power and necessity of persistent prayer. God’s chosen ones are not passive; they actively seek Him in prayer, trusting that He will respond. Persistent prayer is not about convincing God to act but about demonstrating faith and dependence on Him.
Lastly, this verse points to the certainty of God’s justice. Although believers may not see immediate answers, they can be confident that God’s justice will prevail in the end, whether in this life or in eternity.
Literary Analysis
Jesus’ use of a rhetorical question in this verse is a powerful teaching tool. By asking, “Will not God bring about justice?” Jesus emphasizes the obvious answer—of course, He will. The contrast between the unjust judge and God is meant to reassure believers that their cries for help do not go unheard.
The phrase “day and night” is a literary device that conveys continuous, ongoing prayer. It implies persistence and urgency, a recurring theme throughout this parable. The second question, “Will he keep putting them off?” also leads the audience to the expected answer—no, God will not delay His justice forever.
Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 34:15 – “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry.”
- Isaiah 30:18 – “Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice.”
- Revelation 6:10 – “They called out in a loud voice, ‘How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?’”
- James 5:7-8 – “Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains.”
These verses reinforce the idea that God hears the cries of His people and that His justice will come at the appointed time.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder to remain persistent in prayer, even when answers seem delayed. It’s easy to grow weary or discouraged when prayers for healing, justice, or change go unanswered. But Jesus is teaching that persistence in prayer is not wasted—it is an act of faith that trusts in God’s timing and plan.
This verse also encourages believers to trust that God’s justice will prevail. Whether they are facing personal trials or witnessing widespread injustice in the world, Christians can rest in the assurance that God will act. His justice may not always be immediate, but it is certain.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is at the heart of this verse. The fact that He listens to His chosen ones, who cry out to Him day and night, demonstrates His care and compassion. He is not a distant or disinterested judge—He is a loving Father who hears the cries of His children and responds according to His wisdom and love.
God’s delays are not a sign of neglect but of His perfect timing. He knows what His children need and when they need it. His love ensures that His answers are always for their good, even when they don’t fully understand His timing.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus’ teaching in this parable points to the greater justice that He came to bring. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus dealt with the greatest injustice—sin—and provided a way for believers to be reconciled to God. His sacrifice ensures that God’s justice will ultimately prevail, both in the present and in eternity.
Jesus also serves as the believer’s intercessor, continually bringing their prayers before God (Hebrews 7:25). Because of Jesus, Christians can approach God with confidence, knowing that their prayers are heard and that justice will be done in God’s perfect timing.
Lastly, Jesus’ promise to return (Matthew 24:30-31) is a key part of the justice that this verse points toward. While believers may experience temporary injustice in this life, they can look forward to the day when Christ returns and all wrongs are made right.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever felt discouraged when praying for something over a long period of time? How did you handle it?
- How does knowing that God’s justice is certain help you remain patient in times of waiting?
- What role does faith play in persistent prayer, even when answers are delayed?
- How can Jesus’ example of perseverance encourage you to trust in God’s timing?
- What situations in your life or community are calling you to persistent prayer today?