New Testament
Luke 12:59
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I tell you, you won't get out until you've paid back the very last penny."
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I tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou hast paid the very last mite.
What Luke 12:59 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of accountability and the consequences of our actions. He uses the metaphor of a debtor in prison to illustrate that one must fully settle their debts before being released. The 'last penny' or 'last mite' signifies that every small obligation matters. This teaching serves as a reminder that we cannot escape our responsibilities, whether they are financial, moral, or spiritual. It highlights the seriousness of our commitments and the need to address them fully. Jesus is urging his listeners to be mindful of their actions and the repercussions that follow, suggesting that unresolved issues can lead to prolonged consequences. This verse encourages self-reflection on how we handle our obligations and the importance of making amends before seeking freedom or peace in our lives.
How to apply Luke 12:59 to your life
This verse encourages us to take our responsibilities seriously. Whether in our finances, relationships, or commitments, we should strive to settle our debts and make amends. By doing so, we can find true freedom and peace, avoiding the burdens of unresolved issues in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
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Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Luke 12:59
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Key themes
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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 12:59 mean?
Luke 12:59 emphasizes the importance of settling debts and being accountable for our actions. Jesus uses the metaphor of a debtor in prison to illustrate that one must fully address their obligations before being released.
What is the significance of 'last penny' in Luke 12:59?
The 'last penny' signifies that even the smallest obligations matter. It highlights the idea that all debts, whether financial or moral, must be settled completely.
How does Luke 12:59 relate to personal responsibility?
Luke 12:59 relates to personal responsibility by urging individuals to take their commitments seriously. It encourages making amends and settling debts to find true freedom and peace.
What lessons can we learn from Luke 12:59?
From Luke 12:59, we learn the importance of addressing our responsibilities fully. It teaches that neglecting our obligations can lead to ongoing issues and emphasizes the need for accountability.
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