New Testament
Luke 13:28
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 warns about the consequences of rejecting God's message.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
You'll weep and grind your teeth when you see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets inside the kingdom of God — while you yourselves are thrown out.
There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus warns about the consequences of rejecting God's message. He describes a scene where people who thought they were part of God's kingdom realize they are excluded. The mention of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the prophets signifies the faithful who are welcomed into God's presence. The imagery of weeping and grinding teeth illustrates deep regret and sorrow for missing out on eternal life and fellowship with God. This serves as a stark reminder that mere association with religious figures or heritage does not guarantee a place in the kingdom. Instead, true faith and acceptance of Jesus are essential for salvation. The verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing and responding to God's call, as well as the seriousness of spiritual complacency and rejection of His truth. Explore related judgment.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 13:28 to your life
This verse challenges us to examine our faith and relationship with God. It reminds us that being part of a religious community is not enough; we must actively seek a personal relationship with Jesus. We should strive to live in a way that reflects our commitment to Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 13:28 mean?
Luke 13:28 warns that those who reject God's message will face exclusion from His kingdom. It highlights the sorrow of realizing that despite their expectations, they are not part of the eternal fellowship with God.
What is the significance of weeping and gnashing of teeth in Luke 13:28?
The imagery of weeping and gnashing of teeth in Luke 13:28 represents deep regret and sorrow. It illustrates the anguish of those who realize they have missed out on eternal life and the joy of being in God's presence.
Who are Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in Luke 13:28?
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are key figures in the Bible, representing the faithful who are welcomed into God's kingdom. Their mention emphasizes the importance of true faith over mere heritage or association with religious traditions.
How can I apply Luke 13:28 to my life?
Luke 13:28 encourages self-examination of your faith and relationship with God. It reminds us that being part of a religious community is not enough; we must actively seek a personal relationship with Jesus.

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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