New Testament
Luke 14:13
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 teaches about the importance of generosity and inclusivity.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Instead, when you throw a feast, invite the poor, the disabled, the lame, and the blind.
But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus teaches about the importance of generosity and inclusivity. He encourages people to invite those who are often overlooked or marginalized in society, such as the poor and disabled, to their gatherings. This reflects a deeper principle of love and compassion, showing that true hospitality is not about social status or reciprocation but about caring for those in need. By inviting the less fortunate, we demonstrate our willingness to share our blessings and create a community that values every individual, regardless of their circumstances. This teaching challenges societal norms that prioritize wealth and status, urging us to rethink how we engage with others and to extend kindness to those who cannot repay us. Ultimately, it emphasizes that our actions should reflect the heart of God, who cares for the marginalized and calls us to do the same.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 14:13 to your life
When hosting events or gatherings, consider inviting those who are often excluded or in need. This could mean reaching out to the less fortunate in your community, offering them a meal or a place at your table. Such acts of kindness can make a significant difference in their lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 14:13 mean?
Luke 14:13 emphasizes the importance of inviting those who are often marginalized, such as the poor and disabled, to our gatherings. It teaches that true hospitality is about generosity and inclusivity, rather than social status or reciprocation.
What is the meaning of 'invite the poor' in Luke 14:13?
In Luke 14:13, 'invite the poor' means to extend kindness and hospitality to those who are less fortunate. This reflects a call to care for those in need and to create a community that values everyone, regardless of their circumstances.
How can I apply Luke 14:13 in my life?
You can apply Luke 14:13 by inviting individuals who are less fortunate to your gatherings, such as community members in need. Simple acts of kindness, like sharing a meal, can have a profound impact on their lives.
What themes are present in Luke 14:13?
The themes present in Luke 14:13 include generosity, inclusivity, compassion, hospitality, social justice, and love for the marginalized. These themes encourage us to rethink how we engage with others and to extend kindness.

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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