Luke 18:7

Will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night? Will He continue to defer their help?

Study Bible

Will not God
This phrase begins with a rhetorical question, emphasizing the certainty of God's action. The Greek word for "God" here is "Theos," which denotes the supreme deity, the Creator, and Sustainer of the universe. In the context of the Gospel of Luke, God is portrayed as a just and compassionate Father. This phrase reassures believers of God's active involvement in the world and His unwavering commitment to righteousness.

bring about justice
The Greek word for "justice" is "ekdikēsis," which implies vindication or retribution. In the biblical context, justice is not merely about legal fairness but about restoring divine order. This phrase assures believers that God will ultimately set things right, reflecting His holy nature and His covenantal promises to His people. It is a reminder of the eschatological hope that God will rectify all wrongs.

for His elect
The term "elect" comes from the Greek "eklektos," meaning chosen or selected. In the New Testament, it refers to those whom God has chosen for salvation and service. This phrase underscores the special relationship between God and His people, highlighting the assurance that God will act on behalf of those He has called. It reflects the doctrine of divine election, emphasizing God's sovereignty and grace.

who cry out to Him
The Greek verb "boáō" is used here, meaning to call out or shout. This phrase captures the intensity and persistence of the prayers of the faithful. It reflects the biblical theme of persistent prayer, as seen in the parable of the persistent widow earlier in Luke 18. It encourages believers to maintain a fervent prayer life, trusting that God hears and responds to their cries.

day and night
This phrase indicates continual and unceasing prayer. It reflects the Jewish practice of praying at set times throughout the day and night, as well as the broader biblical principle of praying without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). It emphasizes the importance of perseverance in prayer and the assurance that God is always attentive to the needs of His people.

Will He continue to defer their help?
The Greek word for "defer" is "makrothumeō," which means to be patient or to delay. This rhetorical question implies that God will not indefinitely postpone His response. It reassures believers that God's timing, though sometimes mysterious, is perfect and that He will act decisively at the right moment. This phrase encourages trust in God's wisdom and timing, affirming that He will not abandon His people in their time of need.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The ultimate judge and source of justice, who is attentive to the cries of His people.

2. His Elect
Refers to God's chosen people, those who have faith in Him and are committed to His ways.

3. The Parable of the Persistent Widow
The context of this verse, where Jesus tells a parable about a widow who persistently seeks justice from an unjust judge.

4. Unjust Judge
Represents earthly authorities who may be indifferent to justice, contrasting with God's righteous nature.

5. Day and Night
Symbolizes the continual and persistent prayers of the faithful.

Teaching Points

God's Justice is Certain
Unlike the unjust judge, God is righteous and will bring about justice for His people. Believers can trust in His perfect timing and wisdom.

The Power of Persistent Prayer
The verse emphasizes the importance of continual prayer. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in their petitions, trusting that God hears them.

Faith in God's Timing
While justice may seem delayed, God's timing is perfect. Believers are called to have faith and patience, knowing that God will act at the right time.

Encouragement in Trials
This verse offers hope to those facing injustice or hardship, reminding them that God is attentive to their cries and will not abandon them.

Living as God's Elect
As God's chosen people, believers are called to live in a manner that reflects their faith and trust in God's justice and righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the character of the unjust judge in the parable contrast with the nature of God as described in Luke 18:7?

2. In what ways can we incorporate persistent prayer into our daily lives, and what are some practical steps to achieve this?

3. How does the assurance of God's justice in Luke 18:7 provide comfort during times of personal or societal injustice?

4. What other biblical examples illustrate the power of persistent prayer, and how can these examples inspire our own prayer life?

5. How can understanding our identity as God's elect influence our response to challenges and our approach to prayer?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 7:7-11
Encourages believers to ask, seek, and knock, promising that God will respond to persistent prayer.

1 Thessalonians 5:17
Exhorts believers to pray without ceasing, aligning with the idea of crying out day and night.

Revelation 6:10
The souls of the martyrs cry out for justice, paralleling the persistent plea for divine intervention.

Psalm 34:17
Assures that the righteous cry out, and the Lord hears and delivers them from their troubles.

Isaiah 30:18
Highlights God's justice and His desire to be gracious to those who wait for Him.