New Testament
Luke 11:50
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus is addressing the people of His time, indicating that they will be held responsible for the deaths of the prophets throughout history.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
As a result, this generation will be held accountable for the blood of every prophet shed since the world began —
That the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is addressing the people of His time, indicating that they will be held responsible for the deaths of the prophets throughout history. This accountability is not just for the physical act of killing but also for rejecting the messages and warnings that these prophets delivered. By saying 'this generation,' Jesus emphasizes that the people living during His ministry have a unique responsibility because they have witnessed His teachings and miracles. The reference to the 'blood of every prophet' signifies the seriousness of their rejection of God's messengers. It serves as a warning that ignoring God's call and the truth can lead to severe consequences. This verse highlights the continuity of God's message through history and the importance of responding to it faithfully, as those who reject it will face judgment.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 11:50 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of heeding God's messages in our lives. We should reflect on how we respond to spiritual guidance and the teachings of those who share God's truth. Being aware of our accountability can motivate us to live faithfully and encourage others to do the same.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 11:50 mean?
Luke 11:50 means that the people of Jesus' time will be held accountable for the deaths of all the prophets throughout history. It emphasizes their responsibility for rejecting God's messengers and the consequences of ignoring His messages.
What is the significance of 'this generation' in Luke 11:50?
The phrase 'this generation' refers specifically to the people living during Jesus' ministry, highlighting their unique responsibility because they have directly witnessed His teachings and miracles.
What does 'the blood of every prophet' refer to in Luke 11:50?
'The blood of every prophet' refers to the deaths and persecution of God's messengers throughout history, symbolizing the seriousness of rejecting their messages and the accountability that comes with it.
What is the main message of Luke 11:50?
The main message of Luke 11:50 is a warning about the consequences of rejecting God's truth and messengers. It underscores the importance of responding faithfully to God's call throughout history.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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