New Testament
Luke 18:27
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Jesus answered, "What is impossible for people is possible with God."
Compare translations
And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.
What Luke 18:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the power of God in contrast to human limitations. He is responding to a discussion about the difficulty of salvation for the rich, illustrating that while it may seem impossible for people to achieve salvation through their own efforts, God has the ability to make it happen. This statement reassures believers that no matter how dire or challenging a situation may appear, God's power can overcome any obstacle. It serves as a reminder that faith in God can lead to miraculous outcomes that are beyond human capability. The context of this verse highlights the importance of relying on God's strength rather than our own understanding or resources. Jesus encourages us to trust in God's ability to do what we cannot, reinforcing the idea that divine intervention is essential for true transformation and salvation.
How to apply Luke 18:27 to your life
When facing challenges that seem insurmountable, remember that God can do what we cannot. Trust in His power and seek His guidance in difficult situations. This faith can lead to unexpected solutions and breakthroughs in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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 Jesus's story: The Rich Young Ruler (Luke 18:18–30)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; 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.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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 18:27
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 18:27
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 18:27 mean?
Luke 18:27 highlights the contrast between human limitations and God's limitless power. Jesus explains that while certain things may seem impossible for people, God can accomplish what seems unattainable, especially regarding salvation.
What is the meaning of 'impossible with men' in Luke 18:27?
The phrase 'impossible with men' refers to the challenges and limitations humans face, particularly in achieving salvation through their own efforts. Jesus emphasizes that these limitations do not apply to God, who can make the impossible possible.
How can I apply Luke 18:27 in my life?
You can apply Luke 18:27 by trusting in God's power when facing difficult situations. Remember that what seems impossible to you can be made possible through faith and reliance on God.
What does Luke 18:27 teach about faith?
Luke 18:27 teaches that faith involves trusting in God's ability to do what we cannot. It encourages believers to rely on God's strength for solutions and transformation in their lives.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.