New Testament
Luke 12:59
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 emphasizes the importance of accountability and the consequences of our actions.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
I tell you, you won't get out until you've paid back the very last penny."
I tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou hast paid the very last mite.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

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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