New Testament
Luke 22:46
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 addresses his disciples who are struggling to stay awake while he is in deep prayer before his crucifixion.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
He said to them, "Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray, so you don't fall into temptation."
And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus addresses his disciples who are struggling to stay awake while he is in deep prayer before his crucifixion. He questions their sleepiness, urging them to rise and pray. The context highlights the importance of vigilance and spiritual readiness, especially in times of trial. Jesus knows that they will face significant temptations and challenges ahead, and he emphasizes that prayer is essential to resist these temptations. This moment illustrates the human tendency to become complacent or distracted, especially when facing difficult situations. By encouraging them to pray, Jesus teaches that spiritual strength comes from communication with God, which helps believers remain steadfast in their faith and resist the allure of sin. This call to action serves as a reminder that prayer is vital for maintaining spiritual alertness and resilience against temptation.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 22:46 to your life
This verse encourages us to prioritize prayer in our lives, especially during challenging times. By staying spiritually alert and connected to God, we can better resist temptations and remain strong in our faith. Make time for prayer daily to strengthen your relationship with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 22:46 teach about prayer?
Luke 22:46 emphasizes the importance of prayer, especially during difficult times. Jesus urges his disciples to stay awake and pray to avoid falling into temptation. This highlights that prayer is essential for spiritual strength and readiness, helping believers resist challenges and remain steadfast in their faith.
Why did Jesus ask his disciples why they were sleeping?
Jesus questioned his disciples about their sleepiness to highlight their lack of vigilance during a critical moment. He was facing imminent suffering, and he wanted them to understand the importance of being spiritually alert and prepared through prayer, especially when facing temptation.
How can I apply Luke 22:46 in my daily life?
To apply Luke 22:46 in your life, prioritize daily prayer, especially during challenging situations. Set aside time to connect with God, seek His guidance, and strengthen your faith. This practice will help you remain spiritually alert and better equipped to resist temptations that may arise.
What is the significance of temptation in Luke 22:46?
Temptation in Luke 22:46 signifies the challenges and trials that believers will face. Jesus warns his disciples to pray to avoid succumbing to these temptations. This teaches that spiritual vigilance and prayer are crucial for overcoming life's difficulties and maintaining a strong faith.

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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