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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Luke 18:4 For a while he refused, but later he said to himself, 'Though I neither fear God nor respect men,</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/luke/18-4.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/8/42_Luk_18_04.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Luke 18:4 - The Persistent Widow" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="For a while he refused, but later he said to himself, 'Though I neither fear God nor respect men," /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/luke/18-4.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/luke/18-4.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/luke/">Luke</a> > <a href="/luke/18.htm">Chapter 18</a> > Verse 4</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad4.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/luke/18-3.htm" title="Luke 18:3">◄</a> Luke 18:4 <a href="/luke/18-5.htm" title="Luke 18:5">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/luke/18.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/luke/18.htm">New International Version</a> &#8220For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, &#8216Even though I don&#8217t fear God or care what people think, <a href="/nlt/luke/18.htm">New Living Translation</a> The judge ignored her for a while, but finally he said to himself, ‘I don’t fear God or care about people, <a href="/esv/luke/18.htm">English Standard Version</a> For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect man, <a href="/bsb/luke/18.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> For a while he refused, but later he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect men, <a href="/blb/luke/18.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> And for a time he would not, but afterward he said within himself, 'Even if I do not fear God, nor respect man, <a href="/kjv/luke/18.htm">King James Bible</a> And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; <a href="/nkjv/luke/18.htm">New King James Version</a> And he would not for a while; but afterward he said within himself, ‘Though I do not fear God nor regard man, <a href="/nasb_/luke/18.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For a while he was unwilling; but later he said to himself, ‘Even though I do not fear God nor respect any person, <a href="/nasb/luke/18.htm">NASB 1995</a> &#8220For a while he was unwilling; but afterward he said to himself, &#8216Even though I do not fear God nor respect man, <a href="/nasb77/luke/18.htm">NASB 1977 </a> “And for a while he was unwilling; but afterward he said to himself, ‘Even though I do not fear God nor respect man, <a href="/lsb/luke/18.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> And for a while he was unwilling; but afterward he said to himself, ‘Even though I do not fear God nor respect man, <a href="/amp/luke/18.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For a time he would not; but later he said to himself, ‘Even though I do not fear God nor respect man, <a href="/csb/luke/18.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> “For a while he was unwilling, but later he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or respect people, <a href="/hcsb/luke/18.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> &#8220For a while he was unwilling, but later he said to himself, Even though I don&#8217t fear God or respect man, <a href="/asv/luke/18.htm">American Standard Version</a> And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; <a href="/cev/luke/18.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> For a while the judge refused to do anything. Finally, he said to himself, "Even though I don't fear God or care about people, <a href="/erv/luke/18.htm">English Revised Version</a> And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; <a href="/gwt/luke/18.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> "For a while the judge refused to do anything. But then he thought, 'This widow really annoys me. Although I don't fear God or respect people, <a href="/gnt/luke/18.htm">Good News Translation</a> For a long time the judge refused to act, but at last he said to himself, 'Even though I don't fear God or respect people, <a href="/isv/luke/18.htm">International Standard Version</a> For a while the judge refused. But later, he told himself, 'I don't fear God or respect people, <a href="/msb/luke/18.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For a while he refused, but later he said to himself, ?Though I neither fear God nor respect men, <a href="/net/luke/18.htm">NET Bible</a> For a while he refused, but later on he said to himself, 'Though I neither fear God nor have regard for people, <a href="/nheb/luke/18.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> He would not for a while, but afterward he said to himself, 'Though I neither fear God, nor respect people, <a href="/wbt/luke/18.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; <a href="/wey/luke/18.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> "For a time he would not, but afterwards he said to himself, "'Though I have neither reverence for God nor respect for man, <a href="/web/luke/18.htm">World English Bible</a> He wouldn’t for a while; but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect man, <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/luke/18.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and he would not for a time, but after these things he said in himself, Even if I do not fear God, and do not regard man, <a href="/blb/luke/18.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> And for a time he would not, but afterward he said within himself, 'Even if I do not fear God, nor respect man, <a href="/ylt/luke/18.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and he would not for a time, but after these things he said in himself, Even if God I do not fear, and man do not regard, <a href="/slt/luke/18.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And he would not for a time: and after these he said in himself, And if I fear not God, and am not occupied about man;<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/luke/18.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And he would not for a long time. But afterwards he said within himself: Although I fear not God, nor regard man, <a href="/cpdv/luke/18.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And he refused to do so for a long time. But afterwards, he said within himself: ‘Even though I do not fear God, nor respect man, <a href="/nabre/luke/18.htm">New American Bible</a> For a long time the judge was unwilling, but eventually he thought, ‘While it is true that I neither fear God nor respect any human being, <a href="/nrsvce/luke/18.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> For a while he refused; but later he said to himself, ‘Though I have no fear of God and no respect for anyone,<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/luke/18.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And he would not for a long time; but afterwards he said within himself, Though I am not afraid of God, and have no regard for men; <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/luke/18.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> “And he would not for long time, but after this, he said to himself, 'Although I do not worship God neither honor people'<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/luke/18.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> And for a while he refused. But afterward he said within himself: Though I fear not God, nor regard man, <a href="/godbey/luke/18.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> <FR>And he was not willing for a time: but after these things he said in himself, Though I fear not God nor regard man,<Fr> <a href="/haweis/luke/18.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> And he would not for a long while: but after this he said, Though I fear not God, nor respect man; <a href="/mace/luke/18.htm">Mace New Testament</a> for some time he refus'd to do it: but at length he said in himself; tho' I neither fear God, nor regard man; <a href="/wey/luke/18.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> "For a time he would not, but afterwards he said to himself, "'Though I have neither reverence for God nor respect for man, <a href="/worrell/luke/18.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> <FR>And he would not for a time; but afterward he said within himself, 'Though I fear not God, nor regard man;<Fr> <a href="/worsley/luke/18.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> <FR>And he would not for a time: but afterwards he said within himself, Though I fear not God,<Fr> <a href="/parallel/luke/18-4.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3-5_0Jtd9Lc?start=7066" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/luke/18.htm">The Persistent Widow</a> …3And there was a widow in that town who kept appealing to him, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ 4<a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: Kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/1909.htm" title="1909: epi (Prep) -- On, to, against, on the basis of, at. ">For</a> <a href="/greek/5550.htm" title="5550: chronon (N-AMS) -- A space of time or interval; by extension, an individual opportunity; by implication, delay.">a while</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/2309.htm" title="2309: ēthelen (V-IIA-3S) -- To will, wish, desire, be willing, intend, design. ">he refused,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">but</a> <a href="/greek/3326.htm" title="3326: meta (Prep) -- (a) gen: with, in company with, (b) acc: (1) behind, beyond, after, of place, (2) after, of time, with nouns, neut. of adjectives. ">later</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: tauta (DPro-ANP) -- This; he, she, it. ">he</a> <a href="/greek/2036.htm" title="2036: eipen (V-AIA-3S) -- Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.">said</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">to</a> <a href="/greek/1438.htm" title="1438: heautō (RefPro-DM3S) -- Himself, herself, itself. ">himself,</a> <a href="/greek/1487.htm" title="1487: Ei (Conj) -- If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc.">‘Though</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">I neither</a> <a href="/greek/5399.htm" title="5399: phoboumai (V-PIM/P-1S) -- From phobos; to frighten, i.e. to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e. Revere.">fear</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theon (N-AMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God</a> <a href="/greek/3761.htm" title="3761: oude (Conj) -- Neither, nor, not even, and not. From ou and de; not however, i.e. Neither, nor, not even.">nor</a> <a href="/greek/1788.htm" title="1788: entrepomai (V-PIM/P-1S) -- From en and the base of trope; to invert, i.e. in a good sense, to respect; or in a bad one, to confound.">respect</a> <a href="/greek/444.htm" title="444: anthrōpon (N-AMS) -- A man, one of the human race. From aner and ops; man-faced, i.e. A human being.">men,</a> 5yet because this widow keeps pestering me, I will give her justice. Then she will stop wearing me out with her perpetual requests.’ ”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/15-23.htm">Matthew 15:23</a> But Jesus did not answer a word. So His disciples came and urged Him, “Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.” <a href="/matthew/7-7.htm">Matthew 7:7-8</a> Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. / For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. <a href="/james/5-16.htm">James 5:16</a> Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail. <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:17</a> Pray without ceasing. <a href="/romans/12-12.htm">Romans 12:12</a> Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, persistent in prayer. <a href="/hebrews/10-36.htm">Hebrews 10:36</a> You need to persevere, so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">2 Corinthians 12:8-9</a> Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. / But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me. <a href="/1_john/5-14.htm">1 John 5:14-15</a> And this is the confidence that we have before Him: If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. / And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we already possess what we have asked of Him. <a href="/philippians/4-6.htm">Philippians 4:6</a> Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. <a href="/colossians/4-2.htm">Colossians 4:2</a> Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful, <a href="/isaiah/62-6.htm">Isaiah 62:6-7</a> On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have posted watchmen; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD shall take no rest for yourselves, / nor give Him any rest until He establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of the earth. <a href="/genesis/32-24.htm">Genesis 32:24-28</a> So Jacob was left all alone, and there a man wrestled with him until daybreak. / When the man saw that he could not overpower Jacob, he struck the socket of Jacob’s hip and dislocated it as they wrestled. / Then the man said, “Let me go, for it is daybreak.” But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” ... <a href="/exodus/17-11.htm">Exodus 17:11-13</a> As long as Moses held up his hands, Israel prevailed; but when he lowered them, Amalek prevailed. / When Moses’ hands grew heavy, they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it. Then Aaron and Hur held his hands up, one on each side, so that his hands remained steady until the sun went down. / So Joshua overwhelmed Amalek and his army with the sword. <a href="/1_samuel/1-12.htm">1 Samuel 1:12-17</a> As Hannah kept on praying before the LORD, Eli watched her mouth. / Hannah was praying in her heart, and though her lips were moving, her voice could not be heard. So Eli thought she was drunk / and said to her, “How long will you be drunk? Put away your wine!” ... <a href="/2_kings/4-32.htm">2 Kings 4:32-35</a> When Elisha reached the house, there was the boy lying dead on his bed. / So he went in, closed the door behind the two of them, and prayed to the LORD. / Then Elisha got on the bed and lay on the boy, mouth to mouth, eye to eye, and hand to hand. As he stretched himself out over him, the boy’s body became warm. ...</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man;he said.<a href="/luke/12-17.htm">Luke 12:17</a> And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?<a href="/luke/16-3.htm">Luke 16:3</a> Then the steward said within himself, What shall I do? for my lord taketh away from me the stewardship: I cannot dig; to beg I am ashamed.<a href="/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12,13</a> For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/luke/17-8.htm">Afterward</a> <a href="/luke/15-13.htm">Afterwards</a> <a href="/luke/16-15.htm">Care</a> <a href="/luke/18-2.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/mark/12-22.htm">Finally</a> <a href="/luke/15-13.htm">Later</a> <a href="/luke/15-28.htm">Refused</a> <a href="/luke/17-3.htm">Regard</a> <a href="/luke/18-2.htm">Respect</a> <a href="/mark/12-6.htm">Reverence</a> <a href="/luke/17-28.htm">Time</a> <a href="/mark/9-30.htm">Unwilling</a> <a href="/luke/17-21.htm">Within</a> <a href="/luke/15-8.htm">Wouldn't</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/luke/20-32.htm">Afterward</a> <a href="/luke/22-58.htm">Afterwards</a> <a href="/luke/21-8.htm">Care</a> <a href="/luke/19-21.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/luke/20-32.htm">Finally</a> <a href="/luke/22-59.htm">Later</a> <a href="/acts/7-35.htm">Refused</a> <a href="/luke/22-65.htm">Regard</a> <a href="/luke/20-13.htm">Respect</a> <a href="/luke/20-13.htm">Reverence</a> <a href="/luke/18-21.htm">Time</a> <a href="/luke/19-27.htm">Unwilling</a> <a href="/luke/19-44.htm">Within</a> <a href="/luke/18-13.htm">Wouldn't</a><div class="vheading2">Luke 18</div>1. <a href="/luke/18-1.htm">Of the importunate widow.</a> 9. <a href="/luke/18-9.htm">Of the Pharisee and the tax collector.</a> 15. <a href="/luke/18-15.htm">Of Children brought to Jesus.</a> 18. <a href="/luke/18-18.htm">A ruler would follow Jesus, but is hindered by his riches.</a> 28. <a href="/luke/18-28.htm">The reward of those who leave all for his sake.</a> 31. <a href="/luke/18-31.htm">He foretells his death;</a> 35. <a href="/luke/18-35.htm">and restores a blind man to sight.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/luke/18.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/luke/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/luke/18.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>For a while he refused This phrase indicates a period of resistance or delay. In the context of the parable of the persistent widow, the judge's initial refusal highlights the theme of perseverance in prayer. The judge's reluctance can be seen as a test of the widow's determination, mirroring the trials believers may face in their spiritual lives. This delay also serves to contrast the character of the unjust judge with the nature of God, who is just and attentive to the cries of His people. The concept of waiting is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen in <a href="/psalms/27-14.htm">Psalm 27:14</a>, which encourages believers to wait on the Lord.but later he said to himself This internal dialogue reveals a moment of self-reflection or reasoning. The judge's change of heart is not due to external pressure but rather an internal decision. This can be compared to the process of conviction or realization that leads to a change in behavior. In biblical narratives, self-reflection often precedes a significant decision or action, as seen in the story of the prodigal son in <a href="/luke/15-17.htm">Luke 15:17</a>, where he comes to his senses and decides to return to his father.‘Though I neither fear God The judge's admission of not fearing God underscores his lack of piety and moral compass. In the cultural and historical context of the time, fear of God was a fundamental aspect of Jewish faith and justice. The fear of God is often associated with wisdom and righteousness, as seen in <a href="/proverbs/9-10.htm">Proverbs 9:10</a>. The judge's lack of fear contrasts with the biblical ideal of a just ruler, who is expected to uphold God's laws and principles.nor respect men This phrase highlights the judge's disregard for human dignity and justice. In the cultural context, respect for others was a key component of social and legal systems. The judge's attitude reflects a self-centered and corrupt character, which is antithetical to the biblical call to love one's neighbor and act justly, as emphasized in <a href="/micah/6-8.htm">Micah 6:8</a>. This lack of respect further contrasts with the character of God, who is portrayed as compassionate and just throughout Scripture.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/t/the_unjust_judge.htm">The Unjust Judge</a> A character in Jesus' parable who neither fears God nor respects people. He represents those in authority who act without regard for divine or human accountability. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_widow.htm">The Widow</a> Although not directly mentioned in verse 4, she is central to the parable. She persistently seeks justice from the unjust judge, symbolizing the need for perseverance in prayer. 3. <a href="/topical/j/jesus.htm">Jesus</a> The speaker of the parable, using this account to teach about persistence in prayer and the nature of God's justice. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_city.htm">The City</a> The setting of the parable, representing the world where injustice can occur, yet also where divine justice is ultimately realized. 5. <a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a> Implicitly contrasted with the unjust judge, God is portrayed as just and attentive to the cries of His people.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/p/persistence_in_prayer.htm">Persistence in Prayer</a> The widow's persistence is a model for believers. We are encouraged to continually bring our requests before God, trusting in His timing and justice. <a href="/topical/g/god's_justice_vs._human_injustice.htm">God's Justice vs. Human Injustice</a> Unlike the unjust judge, God is righteous and just. He hears the cries of His people and will act in His perfect timing. <a href="/topical/s/self-reflection_on_authority.htm">Self-Reflection on Authority</a> The judge's self-awareness of his lack of fear for God or respect for people challenges us to examine our own attitudes towards authority and justice. <a href="/topical/f/faith_in_god's_character.htm">Faith in God's Character</a> Trust in God's character is essential. Even when human systems fail, God's justice prevails. This trust should fuel our perseverance in prayer. <a href="/topical/c/contrast_between_human_and_divine_justice.htm">Contrast Between Human and Divine Justice</a> The parable highlights the difference between human and divine justice, encouraging believers to rely on God's ultimate justice.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_luke_18.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Luke 18</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'face_to_face_with_god'_mean.htm">What is the meaning of a spirit of fear?</a> <a href="/q/how_should_a_child_be_properly_guided.htm">How should a child be properly guided?</a> <a href="/q/why_do_believers_fear_despite_faith.htm">If 1 John 4:18 states 'perfect love drives out fear,' why do many believers still struggle with fear despite their faith?</a> <a href="/q/how_does_luke_18_1-8_explain_persistent_prayer.htm">How does Luke 18:1-8 reconcile the idea of a just God with the need for persistent prayer to gain His attention?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/luke/18.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(4) He would not for a while.--The judge was callous and dead to pity, even for that extremest wretchedness. The pleadings of the widow were simply an annoyance, which at first he bore with indifference.Though I fear not God, nor regard man.--Here, also, there is a graphic touch of intensity. The man had passed beyond the stage of hypocrisy, conscious or unconscious, and saw himself even as others, even as God, saw him. <a href="/commentaries/luke/18-4.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>For ἐπὶ (epi) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1909.htm">Strong's 1909: </a> On, to, against, on the basis of, at. a while χρόνον (chronon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5550.htm">Strong's 5550: </a> A space of time or interval; by extension, an individual opportunity; by implication, delay. he refused, ἤθελεν (ēthelen) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2309.htm">Strong's 2309: </a> To will, wish, desire, be willing, intend, design. but δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. later μετὰ (meta) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_3326.htm">Strong's 3326: </a> (a) gen: with, in company with, (b) acc: (1) behind, beyond, after, of place, (2) after, of time, with nouns, neut. of adjectives. he ταῦτα (tauta) Demonstrative Pronoun - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> This; he, she, it. said εἶπεν (eipen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2036.htm">Strong's 2036: </a> Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say. to ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. himself, ἑαυτῷ (heautō) Reflexive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1438.htm">Strong's 1438: </a> Himself, herself, itself. ‘Even καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. though Εἰ (Ei) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1487.htm">Strong's 1487: </a> If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc. I do not fear φοβοῦμαι (phoboumai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5399.htm">Strong's 5399: </a> From phobos; to frighten, i.e. to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e. Revere. God Θεὸν (Theon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. [or] οὐδὲ (oude) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3761.htm">Strong's 3761: </a> Neither, nor, not even, and not. From ou and de; not however, i.e. Neither, nor, not even. respect ἐντρέπομαι (entrepomai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1788.htm">Strong's 1788: </a> From en and the base of trope; to invert, i.e. in a good sense, to respect; or in a bad one, to confound. men, ἄνθρωπον (anthrōpon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_444.htm">Strong's 444: </a> A man, one of the human race. From aner and ops; man-faced, i.e. A human being. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/luke/18-4.htm">Luke 18:4 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/luke/18-4.htm">Luke 18:4 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/luke/18-4.htm">Luke 18:4 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/luke/18-4.htm">Luke 18:4 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/luke/18-4.htm">Luke 18:4 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/luke/18-4.htm">Luke 18:4 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/luke/18-4.htm">Luke 18:4 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/luke/18-4.htm">Luke 18:4 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/luke/18-4.htm">Luke 18:4 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/luke/18-4.htm">Luke 18:4 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/luke/18-4.htm">NT Gospels: Luke 18:4 He wouldn't for a while but afterward (Luke Lu Lk) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/luke/18-3.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Luke 18:3"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Luke 18:3" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/luke/18-5.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Luke 18:5"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Luke 18:5" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>