Luke 18:4 (KJV)

What does Luke 18:4 mean?

Luke 18:4 describes how the judge in Jesus’ parable at first refused to help the widow, but after some time, he reconsidered his decision. The judge admits to himself that he does not fear God or care about people, yet he is still thinking over the widow’s request.

In this parable, Jesus is telling a story to his listeners about a judge who is known for his lack of respect for both God and people. The judge’s internal dialogue shows that his actions are not motivated by justice or compassion. This sets up the contrast between the judge’s character and the persistence of the widow, which is central to the lesson Jesus is teaching about prayer and perseverance.

The Greek behind Luke 18:4

• "ἐν ἑαυτῷ" (en heautō) means "within himself" or "to himself." This phrase shows that the judge’s reasoning is private, not spoken aloud, giving insight into his true motives.
• "οὐ φοβοῦμαι τὸν θεόν" (ou phoboumai ton theon) means "I do not fear God." The Greek word "φοβοῦμαι" (phoboumai) often means to have reverence or respect, so the judge openly admits his lack of reverence for God.
• "οὐδὲ ἄνθρωπον ἐντρέπομαι" (oude anthrōpon entrepomai) means "nor do I care about people." The word "ἐντρέπομαι" (entrepomai) carries the sense of feeling shame or regard for others’ opinions, highlighting the judge’s indifference.

Why Luke 18:4 matters

• Luke 18:4 clarifies that the judge’s eventual decision is not based on any sense of justice or moral duty, but on other motives, which Jesus will reveal in the next verses.
• The verse emphasizes the judge’s character, making the widow’s persistence stand out even more and setting up the lesson about perseverance in prayer.
• Understanding the judge’s lack of fear for God or regard for people helps readers see the contrast between human reluctance and God’s willingness to respond to persistent prayer.