New Testament
Luke 20:34
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Jesus answered, "People in this present age marry and are given in marriage.
Compare translations
And Jesus answering said unto them, The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage:
What Luke 20:34 means
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.
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
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Questions in the Temple (Luke 20:20–44)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Luke 20:34
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Luke 20:34
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
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.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.