Luke 18:7-8

18:7 Won’t ¹  God give justice to his chosen ones, who cry out ²  to him day and night? ³  Will he delay ⁴  long to help them? 18:8 I tell you, he will give them justice speedily. ⁵  Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith ⁶  on earth?”

Romans 13:3-4

13:3 (for rulers cause no fear for good conduct but for bad). Do you desire not to fear authority? Do good and you will receive its commendation, 13:4 for it is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be in fear, for it does not bear the sword in vain. It is God’s servant to administer retribution on the wrongdoer.

¹ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

² sn The prayers have to do with the righteous who cry out to him to receive justice. The context assumes the righteous are persecuted.

³ tn The emphatic particles in this sentence indicate that God will indeed give justice to the righteous.

⁴ sn The issue of delay has produced a whole host of views for this verse. (1) Does this assume provision to endure in the meantime? Or (2) does it mean God restricts the level of persecution until he comes? Either view is possible.

⁵ tn Some argue this should be translated “suddenly.” When vindication comes it will be quick. But the more natural meaning is “soon.” God will not forget his elect and will respond to them. It may be that this verse has a prophetic perspective. In light of the eternity that comes, vindication is soon.

⁶ sn Will he find faith on earth? The Son of Man is looking for those who continue to believe in him, despite the wait.