New Testament
Luke 10:11
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'We're wiping off even the dust of your town that clings to our feet as a witness against you. But know this — the kingdom of God has come near to you.'
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Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.
What Luke 10:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is instructing His disciples on how to respond to towns that reject their message. The act of wiping off the dust from their feet symbolizes a formal rejection of those who do not accept the gospel. It serves as a testimony against the townspeople, indicating that they have missed the opportunity to receive the kingdom of God, which is now close at hand. This statement emphasizes the seriousness of their rejection and the urgency of the message they carry. The phrase 'the kingdom of God has come near to you' highlights that God's reign and presence are accessible, but it also warns that ignoring this message has consequences. The disciples are to move on to those who will listen, showing that the offer of salvation is available but not guaranteed to be accepted by all.
How to apply Luke 10:11 to your life
This verse encourages us to share our faith boldly, knowing that not everyone will accept it. When faced with rejection, we should not be discouraged but rather move on to those who are open to the message of God's kingdom. Our responsibility is to witness faithfully.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Sending Out More Disciples (Luke 10:1–24)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying Luke 10:11
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 10:11 mean?
Luke 10:11 means that Jesus is instructing His disciples to shake off the dust from their feet as a sign of rejection towards towns that do not accept their message. This act symbolizes a formal disassociation from those who have missed the opportunity to embrace the kingdom of God.
What is the significance of wiping off dust in Luke 10:11?
Wiping off dust in Luke 10:11 signifies a rejection of the towns that do not welcome the disciples' message. It serves as a testimony against those towns, indicating that they have chosen to ignore the coming of God's kingdom.
What does 'the kingdom of God has come near to you' mean in Luke 10:11?
In Luke 10:11, 'the kingdom of God has come near to you' means that God's reign and presence are now accessible to the people. It emphasizes the urgency of accepting the message of salvation before it is too late.
How can we apply Luke 10:11 in our lives?
We can apply Luke 10:11 by sharing our faith confidently, understanding that not everyone will accept it. When faced with rejection, we should not be discouraged but instead focus on those who are open to hearing about God's kingdom.
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