Drawing from Jesus’ parable of the persistent widow and the unjust judge (Luke 18:1–8), this sermon explores the nature of petitionary prayer—prayer that asks God for something—with three key themes:Petition: Like the widow who brings her case before the judge, we are invited to bring our requests to God. Petitionary prayer is one of many types of prayer, and it reflects our dependence on God for justice, healing, provision, and reconciliation.Persistence: The widow’s relentless return to the judge, despite his indifference, illustrates the kind of bold, persistent prayer Jesus encourages. The sermon likens this to a child persistently asking a parent for something, and emphasizes that God sometimes gives a “yellow light”—a “wait”—rather than a “yes” or “no.” Persistence is not about nagging God, but about trusting His timing and character.Pronouncement: Ultimately, we seek a verdict—a pronouncement—from God. Unlike the unjust judge, God is just and loving. Through Jesus, our advocate, we are not only heard but declared innocent. The sermon highlights the theological truth that God’s justice, not just His mercy, ensures our forgiveness because Jesus has already paid the price. This gives us the boldness—chutzpah—to approach God with confidence.Text: Luke 18:1-8Sermon preached by Peter Tepper at St Peter the Fisherman, New Smyrna Beach, Florida on 19 OCT 2025.
