New Testament
Luke 13:18
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 poses a question about the nature of the kingdom of God, inviting his listeners to think deeply about its characteristics.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Then Jesus asked, "What is the kingdom of God like? What can I compare it to?
Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus poses a question about the nature of the kingdom of God, inviting his listeners to think deeply about its characteristics. By asking what it is like, he sets the stage for a deeper understanding of God's reign. The kingdom of God is not a physical place but a spiritual reality that transforms lives and communities. Jesus often used parables to illustrate these concepts, helping people grasp the profound truths about God's kingdom. This inquiry encourages reflection on how God's kingdom operates in the world and within individuals. It emphasizes that the kingdom is accessible and relatable, inviting everyone to explore its significance in their lives. Through this question, Jesus challenges us to consider our own understanding of God's kingdom and how we can embody its principles in our daily lives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 13:18 to your life
Consider how you perceive the kingdom of God in your life. Reflect on its values and how they can influence your actions and decisions. Engage with others in discussions about faith, helping to clarify and deepen your understanding of God's reign in the world.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 13:18 mean?
In Luke 13:18, Jesus asks about the nature of the kingdom of God, prompting listeners to reflect on its characteristics and significance. This verse highlights that the kingdom is a spiritual reality rather than a physical place, inviting deeper understanding and engagement.
What is the kingdom of God like according to Luke 13:18?
Luke 13:18 presents Jesus' inquiry into the kingdom of God, suggesting it has qualities that can be compared to relatable concepts. This sets the stage for Jesus to explain its transformative and accessible nature through parables.
What can I learn from Luke 13:18?
From Luke 13:18, you can learn to reflect on the nature of God's kingdom and how it operates in your life. It encourages you to consider the values of the kingdom and how they can influence your actions and relationships.
Why did Jesus ask about the kingdom of God in Luke 13:18?
Jesus asked about the kingdom of God in Luke 13:18 to engage his listeners in a deeper conversation about its meaning and implications. This question invites people to think critically about their understanding of God's reign.

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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