New Testament
Luke 12:52
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 highlighting the reality that following Him can create divisions even among close family members.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
From now on, there will be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.
For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is highlighting the reality that following Him can create divisions even among close family members. The mention of five people in one house being divided into groups of three and two illustrates the conflict that can arise when beliefs differ. Jesus is preparing His followers for the challenges they may face, emphasizing that loyalty to Him may lead to tensions in relationships. This division is not a desired outcome but a consequence of the differing responses to His message. The verse serves as a reminder that the call to discipleship can lead to difficult choices and conflicts, as some may embrace His teachings while others reject them. Ultimately, it underscores the importance of prioritizing faith in Christ over familial or social ties, as true allegiance to Him may require sacrifices and facing opposition from those closest to us.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 12:52 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our priorities and the potential cost of following Christ. It reminds us that our faith may lead to difficult conversations and divisions with loved ones. We should be prepared to stand firm in our beliefs while also showing love and grace to those who disagree.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 12:52 mean?
Luke 12:52 means that following Jesus can create divisions, even among family members. It illustrates how differing beliefs can lead to conflict, emphasizing the challenges disciples may face in their relationships.
What is the meaning of division in Luke 12:52?
The division in Luke 12:52 refers to the conflict that arises when some family members accept Jesus' teachings while others reject them. This division highlights the potential struggles in prioritizing faith over familial ties.
How does Luke 12:52 apply to family relationships?
Luke 12:52 applies to family relationships by showing that commitment to Christ may lead to disagreements and conflicts with loved ones. It encourages believers to stand firm in their faith, even when it strains family ties.
What themes are present in Luke 12:52?
The themes in Luke 12:52 include division, family conflict, discipleship, and loyalty to Christ. It emphasizes the importance of faith and the opposition that may arise from those closest to us.

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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