New Testament
Luke 13:14
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But the synagogue leader was furious that Jesus had healed someone on the Sabbath. He turned to the crowd and said, "There are 6 days for work. Come and get healed on one of those days — not on the Sabbath!"
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And the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because that Jesus had healed on the sabbath day, and said unto the people, There are six days in which men ought to work: in them therefore come and be healed, and not on the sabbath day.
What Luke 13:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the synagogue leader expresses anger towards Jesus for healing a person on the Sabbath, a day traditionally reserved for rest and worship. The leader emphasizes that there are six other days for work and healing, implying that Jesus should have waited to perform miracles until then. This reaction highlights the tension between strict adherence to religious laws and the compassionate actions of Jesus. The leader's indignation reflects a misunderstanding of the Sabbath's purpose, which is meant for rest and spiritual renewal, not to restrict acts of kindness. Jesus' healing on the Sabbath challenges the rigid interpretations of the law, showing that mercy and compassion should take precedence over legalistic rules. This incident serves as a reminder that the spirit of the law is more important than the letter of the law, and that doing good should never be limited by tradition or rules.
How to apply Luke 13:14 to your life
This verse encourages us to prioritize compassion and kindness over rigid adherence to rules. In our lives, we should be open to helping others, even when it challenges societal norms or expectations. Embracing mercy can lead to deeper connections and understanding.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Keep studying Luke 13:14
Related Bible verses
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 13:14 mean?
Luke 13:14 shows the synagogue leader's anger at Jesus for healing on the Sabbath, emphasizing that there are six other days for work. This reaction highlights the conflict between strict religious rules and the compassionate actions of Jesus.
What is the significance of healing on the Sabbath in Luke 13:14?
Healing on the Sabbath in Luke 13:14 illustrates Jesus' challenge to the rigid interpretations of the law, demonstrating that acts of kindness should take precedence over legalistic rules.
Why was the synagogue leader angry in Luke 13:14?
The synagogue leader was angry because he believed that healing should not occur on the Sabbath, a day meant for rest, reflecting a misunderstanding of the Sabbath's true purpose.
What themes are present in Luke 13:14?
Key themes in Luke 13:14 include the tension between compassion and law, the role of religious authority, and the importance of mercy over strict adherence to tradition.
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