New Testament
Luke 20:34
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 responding to a question about marriage and the afterlife.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Jesus answered, "People in this present age marry and are given in marriage.
And Jesus answering said unto them, The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is responding to a question about marriage and the afterlife. He points out that in the current world, people engage in marriage and family life. This statement highlights the normalcy of marriage as a part of human experience. Jesus is setting the stage for a deeper discussion about life after death, indicating that the practices of this world, like marriage, may not apply in the same way in the age to come. His words suggest that earthly relationships and institutions are temporary and that there is a different reality awaiting believers in the afterlife. This teaching challenges the listeners to think beyond their current understanding of relationships and to consider the eternal perspective that Jesus is presenting. It emphasizes the distinction between earthly life and the spiritual realm, where the nature of existence and relationships will be transformed.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 20:34 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the nature of our relationships and priorities. While marriage and family are important, we should also focus on our spiritual lives and the eternal implications of our choices. Balancing earthly commitments with spiritual growth is essential.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 20:34 say about marriage?
In Luke 20:34, Jesus explains that in this present age, people marry and are given in marriage. He acknowledges the normalcy of marriage as a part of human life, setting the context for a discussion about the afterlife and how earthly institutions may not carry the same significance in the spiritual realm.
How does Luke 20:34 relate to life after death?
This verse serves as a precursor to Jesus' teaching on the afterlife, indicating that while marriage is a common practice in our current world, it may not be relevant in the age to come. Jesus invites listeners to consider a different reality where earthly relationships are transformed, emphasizing the need for an eternal perspective.
What is the significance of Jesus' teaching on marriage in this verse?
Jesus' teaching in Luke 20:34 highlights the temporary nature of earthly relationships, including marriage. It encourages believers to reflect on their priorities, reminding them that while marriage is important, spiritual growth and understanding of eternal life should take precedence.
How can we apply Luke 20:34 to our lives today?
This verse prompts us to evaluate our relationships and commitments. While marriage and family are vital, we should also prioritize our spiritual lives and consider the eternal implications of our choices. Balancing our earthly responsibilities with our spiritual growth is essential for a fulfilling life.

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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