The Parable of the Persistent Widow 1Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray at all times and not lose heart: 2“In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected men. 3And there was a widow in that town who kept appealing to him, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ 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?” The Pharisee and the Tax Collector 9To some who trusted in their own righteousness and viewed others with contempt, He also told this parable: 10“Two men went up to the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed,a ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—swindlers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. 12I fast twice a week and pay tithes of all that I acquire.’ 13But the tax collector stood at a distance, unwilling even to lift up his eyes to heaven. Instead, he beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner!’ 14I tell you, this man, rather than the Pharisee, went home justified. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” Jesus Blesses the Children 15Now people were even bringing their babies to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them. And when the disciples saw this, they rebuked those who brought them. 16But Jesus called the children to Him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 17Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” The Rich Young Ruler 18Then a certain ruler asked Him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 19“Why do you call Me good?” Jesus replied. “No one is good except God alone. 20You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not bear false witness, honor your father and mother.’b” 21“All these I have kept from my youth,” he said. 22On hearing this, Jesus told him, “You still lack one thing: Sell everything you own and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.” 23But when the ruler heard this, he became very sad, because he was extremely wealthy. 24Seeing the man’s sadness,c Jesus said, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God! 25Indeed, it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” 26Those who heard this asked, “Who then can be saved?” 27But Jesus said, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” 28“Look,” said Peter, “we have left all we hadd to follow You.” 29“Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God 30will fail to receive many times more in this age—and in the age to come, eternal life.” The Third Prediction of the Passion 31Then Jesus took the Twelve aside and said to them, “Look, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything the prophets have written about the Son of Man will be fulfilled. 32He will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and insulted and spit upon. 33They will flog Him and kill Him, and on the third day He will rise again.” 34But the disciples did not understand any of these things. The meaning was hidden from them, and they did not comprehend what He was saying. Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar 35As Jesus drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting beside the road, begging. 36When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening. 37“Jesus of Nazareth is passing by,” they told him. 38So he called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 39Those who led the way admonished him to be silent, but he cried out all the louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 40Jesus stopped and directed that the man be brought to Him. When he had come near, Jesus asked him, 41“What do you want Me to do for you?” “Lord,” he said, “let me see again.” 42“Receive your sight!” Jesus replied. “Your faith has healed you.” 43Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, glorifying God. And all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God. Footnotes: 11 a Or stood and prayed to himself 20 b Exodus 20:12–16; Deuteronomy 5:16–20 24 c Literally Seeing that he had become sorrowful; SBL, NE, and WH Seeing him 28 d Literally left our own; BYZ and TR left all Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Luke 18 Summary Jesus Blesses the ChildrenVerses 1–8 – The Persistent Widow Verses 9–14 – The Pharisee and the Tax Collector Verses 15–17 – Jesus Blesses the Children Verses 18–30 – The Rich Ruler Verses 31–34 – Third Prediction of the Cross Verses 35–43 – The Blind Beggar at Jericho In Luke 18, Jesus imparts critical lessons on faith, humility, and discipleship through parables, interactions, and prophetic utterances. He emphasizes persistence in prayer, humility before God, the necessity of childlike faith, the challenge of wealth to discipleship, and the power of faith for healing. He also foretells His death and resurrection. Historical Background • Widows in first-century Judea often lacked legal standing; without a male advocate they struggled for justice. Jesus’ use of a powerless widow against a corrupt judge heightens the contrast with a righteous God. • Tax collectors like the one in the parable worked for Rome and were despised as collaborators and cheats. • Children in Jewish culture were loved but had no social status. Welcoming them overturned common expectations about who mattered. • Jericho, where Jesus healed the blind beggar, sat on a major trade route 15 miles northeast of Jerusalem. Archaeologists have unearthed Herodian palaces and first-century streets that match the Gospel setting. • “Ruler” (v. 18) likely refers to a synagogue or local civic leader, wealthy and respected. Themes of Justice and Humility Luke links prayer with trust in God’s justice. “Will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night?” (18:7). Perseverance displays faith that God hears even when answers feel delayed (Luke 11:5-8; Isaiah 40:27-31). Humility is praised in Scripture from cover to cover: “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit” (Psalm 51:17); “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). The tax collector’s short plea—“God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” (18:13)—echoes the heart posture God honors. Prayer and Faith • Pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17), confident God is not like the sluggish judge. • Keep asking even when circumstances seem stuck; delay is not denial. • Faith is proven over time. Jesus’ closing question in verse 8 presses readers: Will we still be persisting when He returns? Children in the Kingdom Jesus points to children as models of kingdom life: open-handed trust, eagerness, and freedom from self-importance (Matthew 18:3; Psalm 131:2). The passage corrects any notion that importance with God is measured by age, rank, or accomplishments. Salvation and Wealth The rich ruler illustrates how possessions can grip the heart. Jesus lists commandments from Exodus 20, then exposes the hidden idol. Compare Luke 12:15—“Life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” Paul warns, “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). Yet Jesus provides hope: “What is impossible with man is possible with God” (18:27). Salvation is God’s miracle—He can unshackle a person from any attachment. Prophecy of the Cross Jesus’ detailed prediction lines up with Isaiah 53 and Psalm 22. The disciples’ lack of understanding shows that even close followers can miss God’s plan until the Spirit opens their eyes (Luke 24:45). Miracles and Messianic Identity Healing the blind fulfills Isaiah 35:5—“Then the eyes of the blind will be opened.” The beggar’s title “Son of David” signals messianic faith. When Jesus grants sight, He confirms both His compassion and His rightful claim as David’s promised heir. Archaeological and Cultural Notes • Stone pavement fragments at first-century courts show where litigants like the widow might stand. • Temple steps still visible today remind visitors that worshipers such as the Pharisee and tax collector once prayed there. • Coins from Herod’s reign, common in digs, illustrate the wealth the ruler possessed—and what Jesus urged him to release. • Excavations at Jericho reveal broad roads leading to Jerusalem, explaining the sizeable crowd that joined the beggar’s celebration. Connections to the Old Testament • Persistent prayer: Hannah (1 Samuel 1) kept praying until God answered. • Humbled versus exalted: Proverbs 3:34; 29:23. • God’s care for widows and orphans: Deuteronomy 10:18. • Leaving everything for God: Abraham leaving Ur (Genesis 12); Levites owning no land yet serving God (Numbers 18:20). • Blind eyes opened: “The LORD opens the eyes of the blind” (Psalm 146:8). Practical Applications for Believers • Keep praying when justice seems slow; God’s timing serves a larger purpose. • Guard your heart against spiritual pride. Honest confession beats polished performance. • Embrace child-like dependence on God; status does not earn entrance. • Hold possessions loosely; ask Jesus what might be competing for your loyalty. • Trust Jesus’ predictions: the cross was not an accident but God’s rescue plan. • Celebrate His mercy publicly, like the healed beggar—your account can lead others to praise God. Connections to Additional Scriptures Persistence in Prayer 1 Thessalonians 5:17, James 5:16 Humility Philippians 2:3-4, James 4:10 Childlike Faith Matthew 18:3, Mark 10:15 Wealth and Eternal Treasures Matthew 6:19-21, 1 Timothy 6:17-19 Faith and Healing James 5:15, Mark 10:52 Teaching Points The Parable of the Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8)Jesus emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer, illustrating that God values our perseverance and faith. The unjust judge eventually grants the widow's request due to her persistence, highlighting that God, who is just, will surely respond to His chosen ones who cry out to Him. The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14) This parable contrasts self-righteousness with humility. The Pharisee boasts of his deeds, while the tax collector humbly asks for mercy. Jesus concludes that the humble tax collector is justified before God, teaching that humility is key to righteousness. Jesus Blesses the Children (Luke 18:15-17) Jesus welcomes children, stating, Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it. This teaches us about the necessity of childlike faith and trust in God. The Rich Young Ruler (Luke 18:18-30) The rich young ruler's encounter with Jesus reveals the challenge of wealth and the call to prioritize eternal treasures over earthly possessions. Jesus teaches that what is impossible with man is possible with God, emphasizing reliance on divine power. Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection (Luke 18:31-34) Jesus foretells His suffering, death, and resurrection, underscoring His mission and the fulfillment of prophecy. The Healing of the Blind Beggar (Luke 18:35-43) The blind beggar's faith and persistence lead to his healing, demonstrating the power of faith in Jesus. Practical Applications Persistence in PrayerCommit to regular and persistent prayer, trusting that God hears and responds in His perfect timing. Cultivate Humility Examine your heart for pride and seek to approach God with humility, recognizing your need for His mercy. Embrace Childlike Faith Foster a simple, trusting faith in God, free from cynicism and doubt. Prioritize Eternal Treasures Evaluate your priorities and ensure that your pursuit of material wealth does not overshadow your commitment to God. Trust in God's Power Remember that with God, all things are possible, and rely on His strength in times of difficulty. People 1. JesusJesus is the central figure in Luke 18, teaching and interacting with various individuals. He shares parables, such as the Parable of the Persistent Widow and the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, and performs miracles, such as healing a blind beggar. The Greek name for Jesus is Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous). 2. The Persistent Widow In the Parable of the Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8), this unnamed widow persistently seeks justice from an unjust judge. Her perseverance is highlighted as an example of faith and persistence in prayer. 3. The Unjust Judge This judge, described in the same parable, neither fears God nor respects people. Despite his character, he grants the widow's request due to her persistence. The Greek term for judge is κριτής (kritēs). 4. The Pharisee In the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14), the Pharisee is depicted as self-righteous, praying in the temple and boasting about his own virtues. The Greek term for Pharisee is Φαρισαῖος (Pharisaios). 5. The Tax Collector Contrasted with the Pharisee, the tax collector humbly prays for mercy, acknowledging his sinfulness. His humility is commended by Jesus. The Greek term for tax collector is τελώνης (telōnēs). 6. The Disciples The disciples are present with Jesus throughout the chapter, receiving teachings and witnessing events. They are referred to as μαθηταί (mathētai) in Greek. 7. The Rich Young Ruler This young man approaches Jesus, asking about eternal life (Luke 18:18-23). Despite his adherence to the commandments, he struggles with Jesus' call to sell his possessions and follow Him. The Greek term for ruler is ἄρχων (archōn). 8. The Blind Beggar Near Jericho, a blind beggar calls out to Jesus for mercy and is healed (Luke 18:35-43). His faith is highlighted as he addresses Jesus as "Son of David," recognizing His messianic role. The Greek term for beggar is πτωχός (ptōchos). Places 1. JerusalemIn Luke 18:31, Jesus takes the twelve disciples aside and tells them, "Look, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything the prophets have written about the Son of Man will be fulfilled." Jerusalem is a central location in the Gospels, often associated with significant events in Jesus' ministry, including His crucifixion and resurrection. The Greek term used here is "Ἰερουσαλήμ" (Ierousalēm), which is consistent with its Hebrew origin, "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), meaning "foundation of peace." 2. Jericho In Luke 18:35, it is mentioned, "As Jesus drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting beside the road, begging." Jericho is an ancient city with a rich biblical history, known for its walls that fell in the Old Testament. The Greek term "Ἰεριχώ" (Ierichō) reflects its Hebrew origin, "יְרִיחוֹ" (Yeriḥo), which is often associated with the fragrance or moon. Events 1. The Parable of the Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8)Jesus tells a parable about a widow who persistently seeks justice from an unjust judge. The judge eventually grants her request due to her persistence. This parable emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer and faith in God's justice. The Greek word for "persistent" (προσέρχομαι, proserchomai) highlights the widow's continual approach to the judge. 2. The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14) Jesus contrasts the prayers of a self-righteous Pharisee and a humble tax collector. The Pharisee boasts of his righteousness, while the tax collector humbly asks for mercy. Jesus concludes that the tax collector is justified before God. The Greek term for "justified" (δεδικαιωμένος, dedikaiōmenos) indicates being declared righteous by God. 3. Jesus Blesses the Little Children (Luke 18:15-17) People bring infants to Jesus for blessings, but the disciples rebuke them. Jesus welcomes the children, stating that the kingdom of God belongs to those who are like them. The Greek word for "infants" (βρέφη, brephē) underscores their innocence and dependence. 4. The Rich Young Ruler (Luke 18:18-30) A rich ruler asks Jesus how to inherit eternal life. Jesus tells him to keep the commandments and sell his possessions to follow Him. The ruler becomes sad because of his wealth. Jesus teaches about the difficulty for the rich to enter the kingdom of God, emphasizing reliance on God rather than material wealth. 5. Jesus Again Predicts His Death (Luke 18:31-34) Jesus takes the Twelve aside and predicts His suffering, death, and resurrection in Jerusalem. The disciples do not understand His words. The Greek term for "delivered" (παραδοθήσεται, paradothēsetai) indicates Jesus being handed over to the authorities. 6. Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar (Luke 18:35-43) As Jesus approaches Jericho, a blind beggar calls out to Him for mercy. Despite being rebuked by the crowd, the beggar persists, and Jesus heals him, restoring his sight. The Greek word for "mercy" (ἐλέησον, eleēson) reflects a plea for compassion and healing. Lessons from Luke 18 1. The Power of Persistent Prayer 2. Humility Over Pride 3. Childlike Faith 4. The Challenge of Wealth 5. The Impossibility Made Possible 6. The Promise of Reward 7. Understanding the Prophecies 8. The Gift of Sight 9. The Importance of Mercy 10. The Call to Follow Topics 1. The Parable of the Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8)Jesus tells a parable about a widow who persistently seeks justice from an unjust judge. The parable emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer and faith. The Greek word for "persistent" (προσέρχομαι, proserchomai) highlights the widow's continual approach to the judge. 2. The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14) This parable contrasts the self-righteous prayer of a Pharisee with the humble plea for mercy by a tax collector. It underscores the value of humility before God. The Greek term for "justified" (δεδικαιωμένος, dedikaiōmenos) is crucial, indicating the tax collector's righteous standing before God due to his humility. 3. Jesus Blesses the Little Children (Luke 18:15-17) People bring infants to Jesus, and He uses the opportunity to teach about the kingdom of God, stating that it belongs to those who are like children. The Greek word for "infants" (βρέφη, brephē) suggests the innocence and dependence that characterize those who enter God's kingdom. 4. The Rich Young Ruler (Luke 18:18-30) A wealthy ruler asks Jesus about inheriting eternal life. Jesus challenges him to sell his possessions and follow Him, highlighting the difficulty for the rich to enter the kingdom of God. The Greek term for "eternal life" (ζωὴν αἰώνιον, zōēn aiōnion) reflects the life of the age to come, a central theme in Jesus' teachings. 5. Jesus Again Predicts His Death (Luke 18:31-34) Jesus foretells His suffering, death, and resurrection to the disciples, but they do not understand. The Greek word for "delivered" (παραδοθήσεται, paradothēsetai) indicates the betrayal and handing over of Jesus to the authorities. 6. Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar (Luke 18:35-43) As Jesus approaches Jericho, a blind beggar calls out to Him for mercy and is healed. The beggar's faith is highlighted, and the Greek word for "healed" (σέσωκέν, sesōken) can also mean "saved," indicating both physical and spiritual restoration. Themes 1. Persistence in PrayerJesus teaches the importance of persistent prayer through the Parable of the Persistent Widow. The widow's continual plea to the unjust judge highlights the need for believers to remain steadfast in prayer. ^“And there was a widow in that town who kept appealing to him, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’”^ (Luke 18:3) The Greek word for "kept appealing" (ἐρχομένη) emphasizes ongoing action, underscoring the theme of persistence. 2. God’s Justice and Faithfulness The parable also illustrates God's justice and faithfulness in responding to His chosen ones who cry out to Him. Unlike the unjust judge, God is righteous and attentive. ^“Will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry out to Him day and night?”^ (Luke 18:7) The term "elect" (ἐκλεκτῶν) refers to those chosen by God, emphasizing His commitment to His people. 3. Humility and Justification The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector contrasts self-righteousness with humility. The tax collector's humble plea for mercy is met with justification. ^“But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’”^ (Luke 18:13) The Greek word for "mercy" (ἱλάσθητί) indicates a plea for atonement, highlighting the need for divine grace. 4. The Kingdom of God and Childlike Faith Jesus emphasizes the necessity of receiving the kingdom of God with the innocence and trust of a child. ^“Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”^ (Luke 18:17) The Greek term for "receive" (δέξηται) suggests an open and accepting attitude, akin to a child's trust. 5. The Challenge of Wealth The encounter with the rich young ruler illustrates the difficulty of entering the kingdom of God when wealth becomes an obstacle. ^“How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”^ (Luke 18:24) The Greek word for "hard" (δυσκόλως) conveys the challenge and hindrance that wealth can pose to spiritual priorities. 6. The Promise of Eternal Reward Jesus assures His disciples that sacrifices made for the sake of the kingdom will be rewarded both in this life and the next. ^“Truly I tell you, no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God will fail to receive many times more in this age—and in the age to come, eternal life.”^ (Luke 18:29-30) The promise of "eternal life" (ζωὴν αἰώνιον) underscores the eternal perspective of Christian discipleship. 7. Foretelling of Jesus’ Passion Jesus predicts His suffering, death, and resurrection, highlighting the fulfillment of prophecy and the centrality of His mission. ^“We are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written by the prophets about the Son of Man will be fulfilled.”^ (Luke 18:31) The phrase "Son of Man" (υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου) is a messianic title, emphasizing Jesus' role in salvation history. 8. Faith and Healing The healing of the blind beggar demonstrates the power of faith and Jesus’ compassion. The beggar’s faith leads to his physical and spiritual restoration. ^“Receive your sight; your faith has healed you.”^ (Luke 18:42) The Greek word for "healed" (σέσωκέν) can also mean "saved," indicating a holistic restoration through faith. Prayer Points Pray for a heart that is persistent in seeking God through prayer.Ask God to reveal areas of pride and to cultivate humility within you. Pray for a childlike faith that trusts God completely. Seek God's guidance in prioritizing eternal values over worldly possessions. Pray for the strength to rely on God's power in all circumstances. As we reflect on Luke 18, may we be inspired to live out these teachings in our daily lives, growing in faith, humility, and reliance on God. Answering Tough Questions 1. How does Luke 18:1–8 reconcile the idea of a just God with the need for persistent prayer to gain His attention? 3. Does Luke 18:15–17 contradict any Old Testament teachings about children and divine acceptance? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the parable of the persistent widow encourage you in your prayer life? 2. What does the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector reveal about God's perspective on humility and self-righteousness? 3. How does Jesus' interaction with the little children shape your understanding of the Kingdom of God? 4. What challenges and lessons does the encounter with the rich ruler present about wealth and discipleship? 5. How do you understand Jesus' prediction of His death and resurrection in this chapter? 6. How does the healing of the blind beggar inspire your faith in Jesus? 7. How can the teaching on persistent prayer apply to your current life situations? 8. How do you guard against self-righteousness in your spiritual life as portrayed in the Pharisee's prayer? 9. What steps can you take to cultivate a childlike faith in your walk with God? 10. How do you approach the challenge of wealth and possession in your discipleship journey? 11. How does the prediction of Jesus' death and resurrection deepen your understanding of His mission? 12. How can you emulate the faith and persistence of the blind beggar in your life? 13. How do the lessons in this chapter challenge societal norms and expectations about prayer, humility, faith, wealth, and healing? 14. In what ways does this chapter inspire you to reevaluate your approach to prayer, humility, and discipleship? 15. How can you practically demonstrate faith that persists, like the widow and the blind beggar, in your day-to-day living? 16. How can we learn to view our wealth and possessions in the light of the Kingdom of God, as Jesus taught? 17. How does the healing of the blind beggar challenge you in your expectation of God's intervention in your life? 18. How does the crowd's reaction to the blind beggar's healing inspire your response to God's works in your life? 19. How does this chapter encourage us to persist in our faith, maintain humility, and keep our eyes on the eternal Kingdom? 20. How can these teachings guide us in living as persistent, humble, and faithful followers of Christ in the present-day world? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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