Chapter

Luke 18:3

ESV And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’
NIV And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’
NASB Now there was a widow in that city, and she kept coming to him, saying, ‘Give me justice against my opponent.’
CSB And a widow in that town kept coming to him, saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’
NLT A widow of that city came to him repeatedly, saying, ‘Give me justice in this dispute with my enemy.’
KJV And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.
NKJV Now there was a widow in that city; and she came to him, saying, ‘Get justice for me from my adversary.’

What does Luke 18:3 mean?

Jesus is telling a parable which contrasts the God who willingly gives justice to His children as opposed to an uncaring judge. This judge does not fear God (Proverbs 1:7) nor respect people (Luke 18:1–2). A widow needs justice, but the judge doesn't care. He refuses to do his job until her demands become annoying. He finally gives her justice just to get rid of her (Luke 18:4–8).

This parable follows Jesus' discussion with the disciples about when the kingdom of God will be fulfilled (Luke 17:20–37). They don't realize it, but He's talking about His second coming when He will judge the world. Unlike many in powerful positions, God promises that His followers will receive justice for the wrongs committed against them (Luke 18:7–8).

God has special concern for widows and orphans; much of the Mosaic law's social service program is for their benefit (Deuteronomy 14:29; 24:20; 26:12). David calls God the "Father of the fatherless and protector of widows" (Psalm 68:5). The New Testament teaches us that Christians and the church are responsible to care for widows (James 1:27; 1 Timothy 5:9–10), who are still a vulnerable group around the world.
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