New Testament
Luke 10:28
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"That's the right answer," Jesus told him. "Do this, and you will live."
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And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.
What Luke 10:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus affirms the answer given by a lawyer regarding the greatest commandment, which emphasizes loving God and loving one's neighbor. Jesus highlights that knowing the right answer is not enough; one must also act on it. The phrase "do this, and you will live" suggests that true life comes from living out these commandments. It implies that obedience to God's commands leads to spiritual fulfillment and eternal life. This interaction illustrates the importance of not just intellectual understanding of God's laws but also the necessity of putting that understanding into practice. Jesus is calling for a faith that is active and demonstrated through love and action, reinforcing the idea that genuine faith is reflected in how we treat others and our relationship with God.
How to apply Luke 10:28 to your life
To apply this teaching, we should actively seek ways to love God and serve others in our daily lives. This can involve simple acts of kindness, being present for those in need, and prioritizing our relationship with God through prayer and worship. Living out these principles can transform our lives and the lives of those around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
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Mary, Jesus' mother
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 10:28
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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 10:28 mean?
In Luke 10:28, Jesus confirms the lawyer's correct answer about the greatest commandment, which is to love God and your neighbor. He emphasizes that knowing the right answer is not enough; one must actively live it out to experience true life.
What is the meaning of 'do this, and you will live' in Luke 10:28?
The phrase 'do this, and you will live' means that true life and fulfillment come from obeying God's commandments, particularly the call to love. It highlights the importance of putting faith into action rather than just understanding it intellectually.
How can I apply Luke 10:28 in my life?
To apply Luke 10:28, look for opportunities to love God and serve others daily. This can include acts of kindness, being supportive to those in need, and nurturing your relationship with God through prayer and worship.
What themes are present in Luke 10:28?
Key themes in Luke 10:28 include love for God, love for your neighbor, obedience to God's commands, faith in action, the pursuit of eternal life, and spiritual fulfillment through active living.
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