New Testament

Luke 20:38

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 emphasizes that God is fundamentally associated with life rather than death.

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

He is not the God of the dead but of the living, because to him everyone is alive."

KJVKing James Version

For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living: for all live unto him.

Verse Analysis

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

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.

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.

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