thus an element of importunity in the original lesson of the parable; this point may be traced elsewhere in the teaching of Jesus (see on 11:10), and hence is not unlikely in the present parable. Luke has not laid undue emphasis on the element of importunity in the parable; the two possible interpretations of the parable belong together as one whole. If the parable teaches that the character of God is such that men do not need to nag at him to obtain their requests, at the same time it is an encouragement