Luke 18:6

Luke 18:6, in plain English

Jesus says, 'Pay attention to what that unjust judge said.' He's about to make the point that changes everything about how you pray.

Why it's here

The whole story was building to this: if a terrible judge gave in because of persistence, your perfect heavenly Father will absolutely answer your prayers. Keep going. Don't stop.

Who's speaking

Jesus calls for attention, signaling that the application of the parable is the most important part.

Where it sits in the story

If a corrupt, heartless judge eventually answers a widow because she won't quit, what do you think a loving God will do for His children who cry out to Him day and night?

The scholarly reading

Jesus draws attention to the parable with 'Listen' (akousate), using the emphatic 'the Lord said' (eipen ho kyrios) to mark His authoritative interpretation. The instruction to hear the unjust judge's words prepares for the greater-to-lesser argument in the following verses.

Language and setting

This verse transitions from parable to application. The a fortiori logic is imminent: if an unjust judge responds to persistence, how much more will a just and loving God respond to His children's prayers?

Voice

Jesus speaks with authority as 'the Lord,' commanding attention to the parable's surprising lesson about the character of God revealed through contrast.

Significance

Jesus says: 'Listen to what the unjust judge said.' He's about to flip the story — if even a corrupt judge responds to persistence, imagine what your loving Father will do.

4For a while he refused, but later he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect men,

5yet because this widow keeps pestering me, I will give her justice. Otherwise, she will wear me out with her perpetual requests.’”

6And the Lord said, “Listen to the words of the unjust judge.

7Will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night? Will He delay in helping them?

8I tell you, He will promptly carry out justice on their behalf. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?”

Read all of Luke 18 — A stubborn widow, a humble tax collector, and a rich ruler who can't let go. Jesus shows that the kingdom belongs to those who won't give up and won't pretend.