Luke 11:8 (KJV)

What does Luke 11:8 mean?

Luke 11:8 says that even if a person will not help his friend just because of friendship, he will eventually get up and give what is needed because of the friend’s persistence. The verse highlights that persistent asking can move someone to act, even when friendship alone is not enough.

In this verse, Jesus is telling a story to His listeners about a man who goes to his friend at midnight to ask for bread. The friend is reluctant at first, but because the man keeps asking (his "importunity"), he finally gives in and helps. Jesus uses this example to teach about the power of persistence, especially in prayer.

The Greek behind Luke 11:8

• ἀναίδεια (anaideia) — "importunity": This word means shameless persistence or boldness. It suggests not just repeated asking, but a kind of bold refusal to give up, which is stronger than simple persistence.
• φίλος (philos) — "friend": The Greek for "friend" here underlines that the initial relationship alone is not enough to guarantee help; it is the persistence that makes the difference.
• ὅσων (hoson) — "as many as he needeth": This phrase shows that the friend will give whatever is needed, not just a token amount, in response to the persistent request.

Why Luke 11:8 matters

• Luke 11:8 clarifies that persistence can accomplish what mere relationship cannot, especially in the context of asking for help.
• This verse sets up Jesus’ teaching about prayer, showing that God welcomes persistent, bold requests rather than being annoyed by them.
• The story helps correct the idea that God is reluctant to help; instead, it encourages believers not to give up when seeking God’s help.