New Testament
Luke 15:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I'm telling you, there is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over 99 righteous people who don't need repentance.
Compare translations
I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.
What Luke 15:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the immense joy in heaven when a sinner repents and turns back to God. He contrasts this joy with the situation of the 99 righteous individuals who do not feel the need for repentance. The message highlights God's love and grace, showing that every individual matters to Him. The joy in heaven signifies the value of each soul and the importance of repentance. It suggests that God is more concerned with the lost and the broken than with those who believe they are already righteous. This teaching encourages believers to reach out to those who are lost, as their return to faith brings great joy not only to God but also to the community of believers. It serves as a reminder that no one is beyond redemption and that every act of repentance is celebrated in heaven.
How to apply Luke 15:7 to your life
This verse encourages us to celebrate the return of those who have strayed from faith. We should actively seek to support and welcome those who repent, understanding that their journey back to God is a cause for joy. Our attitude should reflect God's love and grace.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Luke 15:7
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Luke 15:7
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 15:7 teach about repentance?
Luke 15:7 teaches that repentance is highly valued in heaven. It emphasizes that when a sinner turns back to God, there is immense joy among the angels, highlighting the importance of each individual's return to faith. This verse illustrates that God's love extends to everyone, especially those who feel lost or broken.
Why does Jesus compare one sinner to 99 righteous people?
Jesus compares one sinner to 99 righteous people to illustrate the significance of each soul. The contrast shows that while the 99 may not feel the need for repentance, the one who repents is celebrated in heaven. This comparison underscores God's focus on the lost and His desire for all to return to Him, regardless of their past.
How can we apply Luke 15:7 in our lives today?
We can apply Luke 15:7 by actively welcoming and supporting those who have strayed from their faith. This means celebrating their return and showing them love and grace, just as God does. It encourages us to reach out to those who feel lost, reminding us that every act of repentance is a cause for joy and should be embraced by the community.
What does 'joy in heaven' mean in this verse?
'Joy in heaven' in Luke 15:7 signifies the celebration and happiness among angels and God when a sinner repents. It reflects the value placed on each individual soul and the belief that every person matters to God. This joy serves as a reminder of God's grace and His desire for all to seek redemption.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.