Definition: And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Luke 18:3. It’s a really interesting story about compassion and justice! Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: A Widow in a City: The verse introduces a woman who is living in a particular city. We don’t know much about her – she’s alone, likely struggling financially. She Comes to Jesus: She seeks out Jesus, recognizing that someone has wronged her. She's essentially pleading for help and seeking retribution. What’s Happening - The Core of the Verse: “Avenge me…”: This is the key phrase. "Avenge" means to punish or make things right for someone who has been harmed. She wants Jesus to take action against her opponent. “…of mine adversary.” This tells us who her adversary is: a man who has wronged her. It’s important to note that “adversary” doesn't necessarily mean a big, angry person. It can be someone who’s been unfair, dishonest, or unkind. The Overall Meaning - A Focus on Compassion & Righteousness: This verse isn’t just about revenge. It highlights Jesus’s teachings about compassion and righting wrongs. It shows: Jesus cares about the poor: He’s willing to listen to her plea for help. He's a judge: He's recognizing that she has been wronged, which means he needs to intervene. Justice is important: The verse emphasizes that it’s right and good to seek justice for those who are treated unfairly. In short, Luke 18:3 tells us that Jesus will listen to her plea for help and take action against the man who has wronged her. It's a reminder that God wants us to be kind, fair, and to stand up for those who are being mistreated. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Luke 18? Discuss what this story might teach us about forgiveness or letting go of anger?