New Testament
Luke 18:31
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, Jesus is speaking to his twelve disciples, preparing them for the significant events that are about to unfold in Jerusalem.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Jesus pulled the 12 disciples aside and told them, "Listen — we're going up to Jerusalem, and everything the prophets wrote about the Son of Man is about to come true.
Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his twelve disciples, preparing them for the significant events that are about to unfold in Jerusalem. He emphasizes that they are heading to Jerusalem, a place where many prophecies about the Messiah, referred to as the 'Son of Man,' will be fulfilled. This moment is crucial as it marks the beginning of the final phase of Jesus' mission on earth, where he will face suffering, death, and ultimately resurrection. By highlighting the fulfillment of the prophets' writings, Jesus is reinforcing his identity as the Messiah and the importance of the events that are about to take place. This statement serves to remind the disciples of the divine plan and the necessity of these events in God's redemptive work for humanity. It also prepares them for the challenges ahead, encouraging them to have faith in the unfolding of God's purpose. Explore related prophecy.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 18:31 to your life
As we reflect on this verse, we are reminded of the importance of understanding God's plans in our lives. Just as Jesus prepared his disciples for what was to come, we too should seek to understand and trust in God's purpose, even when facing uncertainty or challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 18:31 mean about the prophets' writings?
In Luke 18:31, Jesus indicates that the events about to unfold in Jerusalem are the fulfillment of the prophecies made by the Old Testament prophets regarding the Messiah, referred to as the 'Son of Man.' This highlights the significance of Jesus' mission and identity, affirming that his suffering, death, and resurrection were all part of God's divine plan foretold in scripture.
Why did Jesus take the disciples aside in Luke 18:31?
Jesus took the twelve disciples aside to prepare them for the crucial events that were about to happen in Jerusalem. By doing so, he aimed to ensure they understood the importance of these events and their role in God's plan. This moment was meant to strengthen their faith and help them grasp the significance of his mission as the Messiah.
How does Luke 18:31 relate to the concept of discipleship?
Luke 18:31 emphasizes the importance of discipleship by showing how Jesus prepared his followers for the challenges ahead. Discipleship involves understanding and accepting God's plan, even in difficult times. This verse encourages believers to trust in God's purpose and remain faithful, just as the disciples were called to do during Jesus' final journey.
What can we learn from Jesus' statement in Luke 18:31?
From Jesus' statement in Luke 18:31, we learn the importance of recognizing and trusting in God's overarching plan for our lives. Just as Jesus prepared his disciples for the unfolding events, we are encouraged to seek understanding and maintain faith in God's purpose, especially during uncertain or challenging times.

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.
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