New Testament
Luke 15:19
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I don't deserve to be called your son anymore. Just treat me like one of your hired workers."'
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And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
What Luke 15:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the son acknowledges his mistakes and feels unworthy of his father's love and status as a son. He recognizes that he has squandered his inheritance and believes he has lost his place in the family. By asking to be treated as a hired worker, he hopes to at least have a place to stay and food to eat. This reflects a deep sense of humility and repentance. The son’s willingness to return and serve as a servant shows his desire to make amends and seek forgiveness. It highlights the theme of redemption, as he is ready to accept a lower status rather than remain in his current state of despair. This moment is pivotal in the parable, illustrating the journey of repentance and the hope for reconciliation with the father, who represents unconditional love and grace.
How to apply Luke 15:19 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize our mistakes and seek forgiveness. It reminds us that humility is essential in our relationships, especially when we have wronged others. We can approach those we’ve hurt with a sincere heart, ready to make amends and rebuild trust.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Luke 15:19
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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 15:19 mean?
In Luke 15:19, the son expresses his feelings of unworthiness after squandering his inheritance. He asks to be treated as a hired worker, showing his humility and desire to make amends with his father.
What is the significance of the son's request in Luke 15:19?
The son's request to be treated as a hired worker highlights his deep sense of repentance and recognition of his mistakes. It illustrates his willingness to accept a lower status in hopes of reconciling with his father.
What themes are present in Luke 15:19?
Luke 15:19 encompasses themes of repentance, humility, forgiveness, and redemption. It reflects the dynamics of the father-son relationship and the hope for reconciliation after wrongdoing.
How does Luke 15:19 relate to forgiveness?
Luke 15:19 emphasizes the importance of humility when seeking forgiveness. The son's acknowledgment of his mistakes and his desire to return, even as a servant, demonstrates a sincere approach to mending relationships.
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