What does "importunity" mean in the Bible?

Definition and Etymology

The term “importunity” in many English Bible translations refers to a persistent, almost relentless kind of requesting or entreaty. The older English usage conveys a sense of pressing urgency—one that refuses to give up until the goal is reached. In the Greek of the New Testament, where this concept most notably appears (Luke 11:8), the underlying word is ἀναίδεια (anaideia). This word can be translated as “persistence,” “shamelessness,” or “bold insistence.”

Despite slight differences in English translations, the core idea remains steadfast: a determination so resolute that no discouragement will deter the request until an answer is granted.

Biblical Usage

The most direct biblical context for “importunity” is found in Luke 11:8, where Jesus tells the parable of the friend who goes at midnight to request bread. In the Berean Standard Bible, Luke 11:8 reads:

“‘I tell you, even though he will not get up to provide for him because of their friendship, yet because of the man’s persistence he will get up and give him as much as he needs.’”

Here, the host in need continuously knocks, refusing to be turned away simply because of the inconvenience of the hour.

A related example is the parable of the persistent widow and the unjust judge in Luke 18:1–8. Though the Greek word in Luke 18:5 differs (it is often rendered as “bothering” or “continual coming” in various translations), the spirit of persistent asking or not yielding is strikingly similar. The passage illustrates prayerful perseverance as a vital attribute of faith.

Old Testament Parallels

While the exact word “importunity” does not appear in the Old Testament, there are clear examples of persistent petitioning before God. Abraham’s intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18:22–33) reveals an unyielding approach as he repeatedly entreats God to spare the city for the sake of a decreasing number of righteous individuals.

Moses, likewise, prays multiple times on behalf of the Israelites, imploring God not to destroy them for their sins (Exodus 32:11–14). These examples show that bold, unwavering supplication is not a new concept in Scripture; rather, it has always been part of relating to God with trust in His compassionate nature.

The Parable in Luke 11:8

In the cultural setting of Luke 11, hospitality was of the utmost importance. Running out of bread for a visiting guest would have been seen as highly shameful. So the friend who knocks at midnight is motivated by the urgent need to preserve honor and provide care for a visitor.

Jesus sets up a scenario that highlights the contrast between human reluctance and divine willingness. If a human friend will begrudgingly respond to persistence, how much more will God—who is loving and just—respond to the persistent cries of His children? This teaching underscores that “importunity” is not about wearing God down; instead, it highlights that genuine perseverance in prayer aligns us more intimately with God’s will, trusting Him to work on our behalf.

The Meaning of “Shamelessness” in Prayer

The Greek term ἀναίδεια carries the idea of “shamelessness.” In the context of prayer, this does not imply disregarding reverence toward God. Rather, it suggests that we ought to bring our needs to Him openly, without fear of embarrassment, trusting that He welcomes our honest petitions.

In practice, “importunity” includes:

• Continuously approaching God with the same request until an answer is made apparent.

• Resting in confidence that He both hears and cares about our needs.

• Contrasting earthly responses (“tired neighbors,” “unjust judges”) with God’s infinitely better parenting heart (Luke 11:13).

Theological Significance

Importunity underscores vital aspects of scriptural teaching on prayer:

1. Dependence on Divine Provision: We learn our dependence on God through persistent prayer, recognizing that every solution to our needs comes from Him.

2. Alignment with God’s Will: As believers continue to pray, their hearts often become shaped by the priorities of God’s kingdom, making persistent prayer an avenue of spiritual growth.

3. Deepening of Faith: Continuously seeking God’s aid builds trust in His character and promises. Through importunity, faith is tested and refined, leading to a deeper confidence that God will act in His wisdom and loving timing (cf. James 1:2–4).

Practical Application

1. Unsaved Loved Ones: Many have prayed for family members and friends to experience a change of heart or come to faith. Importunity teaches not to give up, urging consistent prayer that reflects genuine care and hope for transformed lives.

2. Personal Needs and Challenges: Difficulties in health, finances, or relationships serve as reminders to place our trust in God continually. Importunity encourages believers to remain steadfast in prayer, believing in God’s sustaining grace over time (cf. 1 Peter 5:7).

3. Community and Global Issues: On a larger scale, persistent prayer mobilizes the faithful to keep appealing for God’s intervention, especially in matters of justice, peace, and humanitarian needs across regions.

4. As a Heart Posture: Importunity does not guarantee an automatic “yes.” Instead, it is an attitude of humble boldness: praying repeatedly while respecting God’s sovereignty, timing, and will.

Example from Church History

There have been numerous accounts across church history of persistent prayers resulting in remarkable outcomes—such as revivals that began after believers gathered in recurring prayer for many years, repeatedly entreating God to move mightily. These narratives do not treat God as though He must be coerced. Rather, they stand as testimonies to earnest faith, fueled by hope and rooted in the assurance that God answers in His perfect way.

Conclusion

“Importunity” in the Bible speaks to an unwavering, bold persistence in prayer and relationship with God. While culture might see repeated requests as improper or a sign of desperation, Scripture frames such perseverance as an invitation to deeper faith and intimacy with the Almighty. From the friend at midnight (Luke 11) to Old Testament intercessors like Abraham and Moses, the weight of biblical evidence points to a God eager to respond to genuine, persistent prayer.

As reflected in the Berean Standard Bible, the teaching of Christ calls believers to approach the Father with confidence and a heartfelt insistence that does not grow weary. In doing so, prayer becomes more than simply asking for things; it becomes the continual, trusting posture of those who know that their God both hears and answers.