A question is asked at the end of Luke 18:8, “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?”
Think about this question for a moment and consider what He is really talking about. For many, the idea of belief alone is enough to grant entrance into Heaven. I am convinced that thought is far too shallow for what is being talked about. While I am not one who would encourage anyone to attempt to add or take away from the scriptures – sometimes we can reword something when it is based upon the truth of the context. What is Luke 18:1-8 about?
Within the context, there is a major contrast being considered between an unrighteous judge and God. We have a widow, a true widow, going to this unrighteous judge for legal protection – justice. This judge is someone who is not going to be told what to do, he does not fear or respect God. Overall, this is not a man who anyone would consider having a compassionate bone in his body. Not even the court of public opinion would sway this man. This widow keeps going to this man consistently. We are not told what injustice she is experiencing. All that we know is that she has an adversary. After a duration of time, this judge finally acts in the widow’s favor…not because he is a good or righteous man. He does it simply to get her off his back! This was not an act of grace, mercy, compassion, kindness, or anything. This was purely selfish on the part of this judge. This widow recognized that she had a need that must be met and she felt compelled to go to him until this need was met. Now this is not to say that we need to view God in the same light as this unrighteous judge. There is no comparison here between the God and this judge. God certainly cares for His creation!
The widow did not give up in seeking justice even though she was dealing with an unrighteous, uncompassionate judge. Will Jesus’ disciples continue to call out and seek justice from the righteous, good, holy, and compassionate God all the while experiencing injustices for a long duration of time? When we face this world of injustice, will we continue to be faithful in seeking God in our lives? We must not concern ourselves with whether God will vindicate us. He says that He will, and that should settle that. Will you remain faithful?
by Lee Elkins
