New Testament

Luke 19:31

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 instructs His disciples to untie a colt that is tied up and to respond to any questions about their actions by stating that the Lord needs it.

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

If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' say, 'Because the Lord needs it.'

KJVKing James Version

And if any man ask you, Why do ye loose him? thus shall ye say unto him, Because the Lord hath need of him.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus instructs His disciples to untie a colt that is tied up and to respond to any questions about their actions by stating that the Lord needs it. This moment highlights Jesus' authority and foreknowledge, as He knows that the colt will be available for them to use. The act of untying the colt symbolizes the preparation for Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, fulfilling prophecy and demonstrating His role as the Messiah. The phrase 'the Lord needs it' emphasizes the importance of responding to God's call and being willing to serve Him. It also reflects the idea that God can use ordinary things for His extraordinary purposes. This verse encourages believers to be attentive to God's needs and to act in faith when called upon, trusting that their actions can contribute to His greater plan.

How to apply Luke 19:31 to your life

This verse encourages us to be responsive to God's call in our lives. When we feel prompted to act or serve, we should trust that God has a purpose for our actions. Being willing to respond to His needs can lead to significant outcomes in our spiritual journey.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 19:31 mean?

Luke 19:31 captures Jesus instructing His disciples to untie a colt for His use. It emphasizes His authority and the fulfillment of prophecy regarding His entry into Jerusalem.

What is the significance of 'the Lord needs it' in Luke 19:31?

The phrase 'the Lord needs it' highlights the importance of being responsive to God's call. It suggests that God can use ordinary things for His extraordinary purposes.

How does Luke 19:31 relate to servanthood?

Luke 19:31 demonstrates servanthood by showing the disciples' willingness to act on Jesus' command. It encourages believers to respond to God's needs in their lives.

What themes are present in Luke 19:31?

Key themes in Luke 19:31 include divine authority, faithful obedience, and the fulfillment of prophecy. It also reflects the idea of preparation for Jesus' mission.

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.