New Testament
Luke 18:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For a long time the judge refused. But eventually he said to himself, 'I don't fear God, and I don't care about people's opinions.
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And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man;
What Luke 18:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a judge who initially refuses to help a widow seeking justice. His refusal is based on his lack of respect for God and indifference to people's opinions. This highlights a key aspect of his character: he is self-centered and unmotivated by moral or ethical considerations. However, after a period of time, he changes his mind, not out of a sense of justice or compassion, but because the widow's persistent pleas wear him down. This story illustrates the power of perseverance in prayer and the importance of not giving up, even when faced with indifference or opposition. The judge's eventual decision serves as a reminder that even those who seem unyielding can be moved by persistence, and it encourages believers to continue seeking justice and help, trusting that their efforts will eventually bear fruit.
How to apply Luke 18:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to persist in our requests and prayers, even when we feel ignored or dismissed. It reminds us that our efforts can lead to change, and we should not lose heart in seeking justice or help, trusting that our persistence can make a difference.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Keep studying Luke 18:4
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 18:4 mean?
Luke 18:4 describes a judge who initially refuses to help a widow seeking justice due to his lack of respect for God and indifference to people's opinions. Eventually, he changes his mind not out of compassion, but because the widow's persistence wears him down.
What is the meaning of the judge's indifference in Luke 18:4?
The judge's indifference in Luke 18:4 highlights his self-centered nature and lack of moral responsibility. He does not fear God or care about others, which shows how some people may act without regard for justice or ethics.
How does Luke 18:4 relate to prayer?
Luke 18:4 relates to prayer by encouraging believers to persist in their requests, even when faced with indifference. It shows that consistent effort can lead to change, reinforcing the idea that perseverance in prayer is vital.
What themes are present in Luke 18:4?
Themes in Luke 18:4 include perseverance, justice, indifference, selfishness, faith, and prayer. These themes highlight the struggle for justice and the importance of not losing hope in the face of obstacles.
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