How does Luke 18:2 illustrate God's justice compared to human judges? The scene Jesus paints Luke 18:2: “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected men.” • One short sentence, yet loaded with meaning • The judge is the earthly standard of legal authority, but Jesus highlights two glaring deficiencies: – He “neither feared God” — no reverence for divine law – He “nor respected men” — no compassion for people he is supposed to serve Human justice in the parable • Morally disconnected • Motivated by self-interest (v. 4 shows he only acts to avoid personal annoyance) • Capable of delay and indifference—justice hinges on persistence, not principle • Limited scope—his authority extends only to one town, one life circumstance God’s justice by contrast • Rooted in perfect holiness (Psalm 89:14) • Always coupled with love (Psalm 103:6) • Swift in its own timing yet never indifferent (Isaiah 30:18) • Universal in reach—He “judges the earth” (1 Chronicles 16:33) Key takeaways from the contrast • God doesn’t answer because we badger Him but because His character is just (Luke 18:7) • If even a corrupt human judge eventually gives relief, how much more will the righteous Judge act rightly (Romans 3:5-6) • Persistence in prayer is not arm-twisting; it aligns our hearts with a Judge already disposed to righteousness (Hebrews 4:16) Implications for everyday faith • Confidence—approach God knowing His bench is always righteous • Patience—trust His timing without suspecting apathy • Imitation—earthly leaders should reflect God’s justice, fearing Him and honoring people (2 Samuel 23:3) |
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