New Testament

Luke 15:31

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 father reassures his older son, who feels overlooked and jealous of the attention given to his younger brother, who returned home after squandering his inheritance.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

His father said to him, 'Son, you are always with me, and everything I have is yours.

KJVKing James Version

And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the father reassures his older son, who feels overlooked and jealous of the attention given to his younger brother, who returned home after squandering his inheritance. The father emphasizes that the older son has always been with him, implying a close relationship and constant presence. He also reminds him that everything the father possesses is also the son's. This statement highlights the idea of inheritance and belonging, suggesting that the older son has access to all the blessings and resources of the father. The father's words serve to comfort the older son, encouraging him to recognize his value and the love that has always been present, regardless of the circumstances surrounding his brother's return. It reflects themes of grace, acceptance, and the importance of familial relationships, urging the older son to celebrate rather than resent his brother's return.

Key themes

Related topics

grace, jealousy, inheritance

How to apply Luke 15:31 to your life

This verse encourages us to appreciate our own blessings and relationships rather than compare ourselves to others. It reminds us that we are valued and loved, and we should celebrate the successes of those around us instead of feeling envious. Embracing a spirit of gratitude can transform our perspective.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 15:31 mean?

In Luke 15:31, the father reassures his older son that he has always been by his side and that everything he owns belongs to the son as well. This highlights the importance of their relationship and the idea of shared blessings, encouraging the son to appreciate what he has rather than feeling jealous of his brother.

What is the meaning of inheritance in Luke 15:31?

Inheritance in Luke 15:31 refers to the father's possessions and blessings that are available to the older son. It emphasizes that the son has access to all that the father has, reinforcing his value and place in the family.

How does Luke 15:31 relate to family relationships?

Luke 15:31 illustrates the dynamics of family relationships, showing the father's desire to affirm his older son's importance. It emphasizes the need for understanding and support within families, especially during times of conflict or jealousy.

What lessons can we learn from Luke 15:31?

From Luke 15:31, we learn the importance of appreciating our own blessings and relationships. It teaches us to celebrate others' successes and to recognize our own value, fostering gratitude instead of envy.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

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.

Premium

Unlock the full Luke summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Luke — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 24 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Luke summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.