New Testament
Luke 19:12
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 tells a parable about a nobleman who goes to a faraway land to obtain a kingdom.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
He said, "A certain nobleman went to a distant country to receive a kingdom for himself and then return."
He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus tells a parable about a nobleman who goes to a faraway land to obtain a kingdom. This story illustrates the journey of the nobleman, who represents Jesus himself, as he leaves to secure authority and power before returning. The nobleman’s trip signifies the time Jesus spends away from Earth, where he ascends to heaven to establish his reign. The mention of a distant country emphasizes the separation between the nobleman and his subjects, highlighting the anticipation of his return. This parable sets the stage for understanding the responsibilities and expectations placed on those who await his return. It serves as a reminder that while the nobleman is away, his followers must remain faithful and diligent in their tasks, preparing for his eventual return and the establishment of his kingdom. The story encourages believers to be proactive in their faith and stewardship during the waiting period, knowing that their actions have significance in the kingdom to come. Explore related faithfulness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 19:12 to your life
As we await Jesus' return, we should actively engage in our faith and responsibilities. This means living out our values, serving others, and sharing the message of the kingdom. Our actions today matter and contribute to the greater purpose of God's plan.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 19:12 mean?
Luke 19:12 describes a nobleman who goes to a distant country to receive a kingdom. This parable illustrates Jesus' journey to heaven to establish His reign before returning to His followers.
What is the meaning of 'nobleman' in Luke 19:12?
In Luke 19:12, the 'nobleman' represents Jesus, who leaves to secure authority and power. His journey signifies the time He spends away from Earth, highlighting the importance of His eventual return.
How does Luke 19:12 relate to Jesus' return?
Luke 19:12 relates to Jesus' return by illustrating His departure to secure His kingdom. It encourages believers to remain faithful and diligent in their responsibilities while awaiting His return.
What lessons can we learn from Luke 19:12?
From Luke 19:12, we learn the importance of being proactive in our faith and responsibilities. It reminds us that our actions during the waiting period are significant in preparing for Jesus' return.

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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