A Friend at Midnight
Luke 11:5-8
1. The parable is not about persistence.
2. The parable encourages us to be repetitious in our prayers because God will hear us
for our many words.
3. If we pray long enough, and passionately enough, God will change his mind.
4. Is God of such character that he responds to long and passionate prayers?
5. Jesus conviction is that God is a God who eagerly hears the prayers of
his people and can be trusted to respond.
6. If you would ask for and expect help from a neighbor, how much more
should you seek and expect the help of God?
The Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14).
1. Christians are easily guilty of self-satisfaction like the Pharisee.
2. When we are alone with God we realize how far from God we are.
3. When we see God’s holiness we realize our own sinfulness.
4. If we feel safe like the Pharises we really are in danger of peril.
5. It is wrong to assume…to make oneself out as utterly vile…as if God is pleased with
self-abasement,
6. All too frequently we secretly judge people as less than ourselves.
7. The parable excludes every thought that would elevate one above other
The Unjust Judge
Luke 18:1-3
1. This parable offers no answer as to why God moves slowly in brining final vindication and justice.
2. This parable urges prayerful and faithful living in the confidence that God will act.
3. The parable is not about persistence in praying until we get our desires.
4. God is not like the uncaring, unrighteous judge, but is merciful, patient, and eager to assist his people,
5. It is necessary to stay alert and ready for God’s vindication and judgment.
6. Vindication has begun with the kingdom and resurrection of Jesus, but it awaits God’s future eschatological action.