New Testament
Luke 22:40
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When he arrived at the place, he said to them, 'Pray that you do not enter into temptation.'
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And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.
What Luke 22:40 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples shortly before his arrest. He emphasizes the importance of prayer as a means to resist temptation. The phrase 'do not enter into temptation' suggests that temptation is a real danger that can lead to sin. Jesus knows that his disciples will face challenges and trials, especially in the coming hours when he will be taken away. By urging them to pray, he highlights that spiritual vigilance and reliance on God are crucial for overcoming the struggles they will encounter. This moment reflects Jesus' deep concern for his followers and his desire for them to remain strong in their faith. It serves as a reminder that prayer is a powerful tool in the fight against temptation and that believers should seek God's help to stay steadfast in their commitment to righteousness.
How to apply Luke 22:40 to your life
In our daily lives, we face various temptations that can lead us away from our values and beliefs. This verse encourages us to prioritize prayer, seeking God's strength to resist these challenges. Regular prayer can help us stay focused and grounded in our faith, especially during difficult times.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Prayer in Gethsemane (Luke 22:39–46)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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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 22:40 mean?
In Luke 22:40, Jesus instructs his disciples to pray to avoid falling into temptation. This highlights the importance of prayer in resisting challenges and staying strong in faith.
What is the meaning of 'do not enter into temptation' in Luke 22:40?
The phrase 'do not enter into temptation' indicates that temptation is a real threat that can lead to sin. Jesus encourages his disciples to pray for strength to resist these temptations.
How can I apply Luke 22:40 in my life?
You can apply Luke 22:40 by prioritizing prayer in your daily routine, especially when facing temptations. Seeking God's help through prayer can strengthen your resolve to uphold your values.
Why did Jesus tell his disciples to pray in Luke 22:40?
Jesus told his disciples to pray to prepare them for the trials they would soon face. He wanted them to rely on God for strength to resist temptation and remain faithful.
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