New Testament
Luke 11:28
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But Jesus replied, "Even more blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it."
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But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.
What Luke 11:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of not just hearing God's word but also putting it into action. He responds to a woman who praises His mother, redirecting the focus to those who actively listen to God's teachings and follow them. This highlights that true blessing comes from obedience to God's commands. Jesus is teaching that while familial ties are important, spiritual obedience is even more significant. The act of hearing implies understanding, and keeping the word suggests a commitment to live by it. This verse encourages believers to engage with Scripture actively, ensuring that their faith is reflected in their actions. It serves as a reminder that blessings are found in a life that aligns with God's will, rather than mere acknowledgment of His word.
How to apply Luke 11:28 to your life
To apply this verse, make a conscious effort to read and understand the Bible regularly. Reflect on how you can implement its teachings in your daily life. Consider ways to act on what you learn, ensuring your faith is not just theoretical but practical and lived out.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Plain Meaning
A woman called out that Jesus's mother was blessed for giving birth to him. Jesus does not disagree, but he shifts the point. He says the truly blessed people are those who hear God's word and keep it — meaning they listen to it and do what it says. The blessing is not about being close to Jesus by family. It is about obeying God's word.
Read It in Context
In verse 27, a woman in the crowd praised Jesus by praising his mother. Jesus answers with "Yea rather" — he accepts her point but moves the focus. The bigger blessing belongs to those who obey God's word.
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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 11:28 mean?
Luke 11:28 means that true blessing comes from not only hearing God's word but also obeying it. Jesus emphasizes that those who actively listen to and follow God's teachings are more blessed than those who simply acknowledge them.
What is the significance of obedience in Luke 11:28?
Obedience in Luke 11:28 is significant because it highlights that blessings are tied to action. Jesus teaches that understanding God's word is important, but living it out through obedience is what truly brings blessing.
How can I apply Luke 11:28 in my life?
To apply Luke 11:28, regularly read the Bible and think about how to implement its teachings in your daily actions. Focus on living out your faith practically, ensuring that your understanding of God's word translates into your behavior.
What does 'hear the word of God' mean in Luke 11:28?
'Hear the word of God' in Luke 11:28 means to actively listen and understand God's teachings. It implies that simply hearing is not enough; one must also commit to following and living by those teachings.
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