New Testament
Luke 17:18
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Were none found to return and give glory to God except this foreigner?
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There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.
What Luke 17:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus highlights the surprising fact that among the ten lepers He healed, only one returned to express gratitude, and that person was a Samaritan, considered an outsider by the Jews. This emphasizes the importance of recognizing and acknowledging God's blessings. Jesus points out that the others, despite receiving a miraculous healing, did not take the time to return and give thanks. This moment serves as a reminder that gratitude is essential in our relationship with God. It challenges us to reflect on our own responses to God's goodness in our lives. Are we quick to thank Him for His blessings, or do we take them for granted? The Samaritan's return illustrates that true faith is often accompanied by gratitude, and it is a call for all believers to cultivate a heart of thankfulness, regardless of their background or status.
How to apply Luke 17:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to be mindful of our responses to God's blessings. We should regularly take time to express our gratitude for what we have received. Practicing thankfulness can deepen our faith and strengthen our relationship with God, reminding us to acknowledge His goodness in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Ten Men Healed of Leprosy (Luke 17:11–19)
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Jesus
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Luke 17:18
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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 17:18 mean?
Luke 17:18 highlights that among the ten lepers healed by Jesus, only one, a Samaritan, returned to give thanks. This emphasizes the importance of gratitude and recognizing God's blessings in our lives.
What is the significance of the Samaritan in Luke 17:18?
The Samaritan's return in Luke 17:18 is significant because he was considered an outsider by the Jews. His gratitude serves as a reminder that faith and thankfulness can come from unexpected places.
Why did only one leper return in Luke 17:18?
Only one leper returned in Luke 17:18 to give thanks because he recognized the significance of his healing and felt compelled to express his gratitude. This highlights a common human tendency to overlook thankfulness after receiving blessings.
How can I apply Luke 17:18 to my life?
You can apply Luke 17:18 by making a conscious effort to express gratitude for the blessings you receive. Regularly acknowledging what you are thankful for can strengthen your relationship with God and deepen your faith.
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