New Testament
Luke 14:23
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, the master instructs his servant to go out into the roads and country lanes to invite people to his feast.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
The master told him, 'Then go out to the roads and country lanes and urge people to come in, so that my house will be full.
And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the master instructs his servant to go out into the roads and country lanes to invite people to his feast. This reflects the idea of inclusivity and the desire for everyone to experience the joy of the feast. The master wants his house to be full, symbolizing God's desire for all people to come to Him. The act of urging or compelling people to come in shows the urgency and importance of the invitation. It emphasizes that the invitation to God's kingdom is open to all, regardless of their background or status. This verse highlights the mission of spreading the message of God's love and grace to everyone, encouraging believers to actively seek out those who have not yet accepted the invitation to join in the celebration of faith and community. It serves as a reminder that the call to faith is not just for a select few but is meant for all who are willing to respond.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 14:23 to your life
As believers, we are called to actively invite others to experience God's love and grace. This can be done through personal relationships, community outreach, or simply sharing our faith stories. We should be intentional in reaching out to those who may feel excluded or unaware of God's invitation.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 14:23 mean?
Luke 14:23 conveys the message that the master desires his house to be full, symbolizing God's wish for everyone to accept His invitation to join in His kingdom. The verse emphasizes the importance of actively inviting others to experience God's love and grace.
What is the meaning of 'compel them to come in' in Luke 14:23?
The phrase 'compel them to come in' suggests a sense of urgency and determination in inviting people to the feast. It highlights the importance of making an effort to reach out to those who may not feel included or aware of the invitation.
How does Luke 14:23 relate to inclusivity?
Luke 14:23 illustrates inclusivity by showing that the invitation to the feast is extended to everyone, regardless of their background. It reflects God's desire for all people to come together and experience His love.
What themes are present in Luke 14:23?
Key themes in Luke 14:23 include invitation, inclusivity, urgency, God's desire for community, and the mission of spreading faith. These themes highlight the importance of reaching out to others and sharing the message of God's grace.

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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