New Testament
Luke 20:38
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He is not the God of the dead but of the living, because to him everyone is alive."
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For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living: for all live unto him.
What Luke 20:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes that God is fundamentally associated with life rather than death. The context is a discussion about resurrection, where Jesus asserts that those who have died are still alive in God's eyes. This statement challenges the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection of the dead. By declaring that God is the God of the living, Jesus highlights the eternal nature of life with God, suggesting that death does not sever the relationship between God and His people. This understanding reassures believers that their loved ones who have passed away are not lost but are alive in a different form. It also reinforces the idea that God's power extends beyond physical death, affirming the hope of resurrection and eternal life for all who believe in Him. Thus, this verse serves as a profound reminder of the continuity of life in God's presence, encouraging faith in the promise of eternal life.
How to apply Luke 20:38 to your life
This verse encourages us to view death not as an end but as a transition to a different state of existence with God. It reminds us to cherish our relationships and to have hope in the promise of eternal life. We can find comfort in knowing that our loved ones who have passed are alive in God's presence.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Questions in the Temple (Luke 20:20–44)
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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.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Luke 20:38
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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 20:38 mean?
Luke 20:38 means that God is associated with the living rather than the dead. Jesus emphasizes that those who have died are still alive in God's eyes, highlighting the belief in resurrection and eternal life.
What is the meaning of 'God of the living' in Luke 20:38?
'God of the living' in Luke 20:38 signifies that God has a relationship with those who are alive spiritually, even if they have physically died. It underscores the idea that death does not end one's existence with God.
How does Luke 20:38 relate to resurrection?
Luke 20:38 relates to resurrection by affirming that God is not limited by death. It suggests that all people live on in some form, reinforcing the hope of life after death for believers.
What hope does Luke 20:38 offer to believers?
Luke 20:38 offers hope to believers by assuring them that death is not the end. It comforts them with the belief that their loved ones who have passed away are alive in God's presence.
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