New Testament

Luke 17:3

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, Jesus emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and accountability in relationships.

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

So watch yourselves. If your brother sins against you, confront him about it. And if he repents, forgive him.

KJVKing James Version

Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and accountability in relationships. He instructs us to be vigilant about our own behavior and to address wrongdoing when it occurs. If someone wrongs you, it is essential to confront them directly and honestly. This confrontation should be done with the aim of reconciliation, not condemnation. If the person acknowledges their mistake and shows genuine remorse, you are called to forgive them. This process highlights the balance between justice and mercy, encouraging us to maintain healthy relationships through open communication and forgiveness. It reminds us that forgiveness is a choice that can restore relationships and promote healing, both for the one who forgives and the one who is forgiven.

How to apply Luke 17:3 to your life

In your daily interactions, be mindful of how you address conflicts. If someone offends you, approach them with kindness and honesty. If they apologize sincerely, choose to forgive them, fostering a spirit of reconciliation and understanding in your relationships.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 17:3 mean?

Luke 17:3 teaches that we should be aware of our own actions and address any wrongdoing from others directly. It emphasizes the importance of confronting someone who has wronged you and forgiving them if they show genuine remorse.

What is the meaning of forgiveness in Luke 17:3?

In Luke 17:3, forgiveness means letting go of resentment towards someone who has wronged you after they acknowledge their mistake. It highlights the importance of reconciliation and maintaining healthy relationships.

How does Luke 17:3 relate to accountability?

Luke 17:3 relates to accountability by reminding us to be vigilant about our own behavior and to hold others accountable for their actions. It encourages direct communication when someone has sinned against us.

What is the overall message of Luke 17:3?

The overall message of Luke 17:3 is about the balance between confronting wrongdoing and offering forgiveness. It encourages open communication in relationships and emphasizes the importance of reconciliation.

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.