New Testament
Luke 19:33
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 sends two of His disciples to retrieve a colt that has never been ridden.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
As they were untying the colt, the owners asked them, "Why are you untying the colt?"
And as they were loosing the colt, the owners thereof said unto them, Why loose ye the colt?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus sends two of His disciples to retrieve a colt that has never been ridden. As they are untying the colt, the owners question them about their actions. This moment highlights the authority of Jesus, as He knows the colt will be available for His use. The owners' inquiry reflects a common concern for property, yet it also sets the stage for the fulfillment of prophecy regarding Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The disciples' obedience in following Jesus' instructions demonstrates their faith and trust in Him. This event is significant as it marks the beginning of the final week of Jesus' earthly ministry, leading up to His crucifixion. The colt symbolizes peace, contrasting with the warlike expectations of a conquering king. This interaction emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, even when circumstances seem unusual or unclear.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 19:33 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust and obey God's instructions, even when we don't fully understand the reasons behind them. Just as the disciples acted on faith, we too should be willing to follow God's guidance in our lives, knowing He has a purpose for our actions.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 19:33 mean?
Luke 19:33 describes the moment when Jesus' disciples are sent to untie a colt for His use. The owners question them, highlighting their concern for property and setting the stage for Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, fulfilling prophecy.
What is the significance of the colt in Luke 19:33?
The colt represents peace and humility, contrasting with the expectations of a conquering king. Its use in Jesus' entry into Jerusalem symbolizes the fulfillment of prophecy and the nature of His kingship.
Why did the owners ask about the colt in Luke 19:33?
The owners asked about the colt because they were concerned about their property being taken without permission. This interaction emphasizes the authority of Jesus and the obedience of His disciples.
What does this verse teach about obedience?
Luke 19:33 illustrates the importance of obedience to God's commands, as the disciples followed Jesus' instructions without fully understanding the situation. Their faith and trust in Jesus are key themes in this passage.

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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