New Testament
Luke 10:21
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At that time, Jesus rejoiced in spirit and said, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was pleasing in your sight."
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In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.
What Luke 10:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus expresses joy in the Holy Spirit as He thanks God the Father for revealing spiritual truths to those who are humble and childlike, rather than to the wise and learned. This highlights a key aspect of Jesus' ministry: the idea that true understanding of God's kingdom is not based on human wisdom or intellect, but on a heart that is open and receptive like that of a child. The 'wise and prudent' represent those who rely on their own understanding, while 'little children' symbolize those who approach God with humility and trust. Jesus affirms that this divine choice to reveal truth to the humble is pleasing to God, emphasizing that God's ways often contrast with human expectations.
How to apply Luke 10:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to cultivate a humble heart and approach God with childlike faith. Instead of relying solely on our intellect, we should seek spiritual understanding through prayer and openness to God's guidance. Embracing humility can lead to deeper insights into God's truth.
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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Jesus
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 10:21
Related Bible verses
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 10:21 mean?
Luke 10:21 shows Jesus expressing joy in the Holy Spirit as He thanks God for revealing spiritual truths to the humble rather than the wise. This highlights that understanding God's kingdom comes from a childlike heart, not human intellect.
What is the meaning of 'little children' in Luke 10:21?
In Luke 10:21, 'little children' symbolizes those who approach God with humility and trust. It contrasts with the 'wise and prudent,' indicating that spiritual insight is granted to those who are open and receptive.
Why does Jesus thank God in Luke 10:21?
Jesus thanks God in Luke 10:21 for hiding spiritual truths from the wise and revealing them to the humble. This reflects God's preference for humility and openness in receiving His wisdom.
What themes are present in Luke 10:21?
Key themes in Luke 10:21 include joy in the Spirit, revelation to the humble, the importance of childlike faith, and the contrast between divine wisdom and human wisdom.
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