Topical Encyclopedia The Parable of the Friend at Midnight is a teaching of Jesus found in the Gospel of Luke, specifically in Luke 11:5-8. This parable is part of a larger discourse on prayer, emphasizing the importance of persistence and faith in seeking God's help and provision.Context and Setting The parable is situated within a broader teaching on prayer, where Jesus is instructing His disciples on how to pray. This follows the Lord's Prayer, which Jesus provides as a model for prayer in Luke 11:2-4. The parable serves to illustrate the attitude and persistence one should have in prayer, encouraging believers to approach God with confidence and perseverance. The Parable In the Berean Standard Bible, the parable is recounted as follows: "Then Jesus said to them, 'Suppose one of you goes to a friend at midnight and says, "Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, because a friend of mine has come to me on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him." And suppose the one inside answers, "Do not bother me. My door is already shut, and my children and I are in bed. I cannot get up to give you anything." I tell you, even though he will not get up to provide for him because of friendship, yet because of the man’s persistence, he will get up and give him as much as he needs.'" (Luke 11:5-8) Interpretation and Themes 1. Persistence in Prayer: The central theme of the parable is the importance of persistence in prayer. The friend at midnight represents a petitioner who, despite the inconvenience and initial refusal, continues to ask for help. This persistence is rewarded, illustrating that God values and responds to earnest and persistent prayer. 2. God's Willingness to Provide: The parable contrasts human reluctance with divine generosity. While the friend may be reluctant to help due to the inconvenience, God is portrayed as a loving Father who is eager to provide for His children. This underscores the belief that God is more willing to give than humans are to ask. 3. Faith and Trust: The parable encourages believers to have faith and trust in God's provision. It reassures them that their prayers are heard and that God, in His perfect timing and wisdom, will respond to their needs. 4. Community and Hospitality: The cultural backdrop of the parable highlights the importance of hospitality and community. The request for bread is driven by the need to show hospitality to an unexpected guest, reflecting the communal values of the time. This aspect of the parable reminds believers of their duty to care for others and to rely on one another in times of need. Application for Believers The Parable of the Friend at Midnight serves as a powerful reminder for Christians to approach God with boldness and persistence in prayer. It encourages believers to trust in God's goodness and to remain steadfast in their faith, knowing that God is attentive to their needs and will provide according to His will. This teaching reinforces the relationship between God and His people, characterized by trust, persistence, and divine generosity. Nave's Topical Index Luke 11:5-8And he said to them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and say to him, Friend, lend me three loaves; Nave's Topical Index Library The Friend at Midnight. The Man who Knocked at Midnight A Model of Intercession Prayer and Importunity (Continued) On the Words of the Gospel, Luke xi. 5, "Which of You Shall have a ... Eighth Lesson. Because of his Importunity;' Sixteenth Lesson. Speedily, Though Bearing Long;' Ninth Lesson. Pray the Lord of the Harvest;' The Intercessory Prayers of Christians The Second Series of Parables - the Two Parables of Him who is ... Resources What is the Jesus Family Tomb? Has the lost tomb of Jesus Christ been discovered? | GotQuestions.orgIs Jesus the Messiah? | GotQuestions.org Why did God send Jesus? | GotQuestions.org Jesus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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