New Testament
Luke 23:21
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, we see the intense emotions of the crowd as they demand the crucifixion of Jesus.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
But they kept shouting, "Crucify him! Crucify him!"
But they cried, saying, Crucify him, crucify him.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the intense emotions of the crowd as they demand the crucifixion of Jesus. Despite the evidence of His innocence and the miracles He performed, the people are swayed by their leaders and their own fears. The repetition of 'Crucify him!' emphasizes their determination and the mob mentality that can arise in such situations. This moment highlights the conflict between justice and public opinion, showing how easily people can be influenced to act against their better judgment. The crowd's choice reflects a deeper spiritual blindness and a rejection of the truth that Jesus represented. This scene is pivotal in the narrative of Jesus' trial and crucifixion, illustrating the tragic outcome of collective anger and the fulfillment of prophecy regarding the Messiah's suffering. It serves as a reminder of the power of voices in society and the importance of standing firm in truth, even when faced with overwhelming opposition.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 23:21 to your life
This verse challenges us to consider how easily we can be influenced by the crowd around us. It encourages us to seek truth and justice, even when it is unpopular. We should strive to stand firm in our beliefs and values, rather than succumbing to peer pressure or societal expectations.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 23:21 mean?
Luke 23:21 depicts the crowd's demand for Jesus' crucifixion, highlighting their intense emotions and willingness to reject truth despite His innocence. This moment illustrates the dangers of mob mentality and the influence of public opinion over justice.
How does Luke 23:21 relate to the theme of injustice?
Luke 23:21 relates to injustice by showing how the crowd, driven by fear and manipulation, chooses to condemn an innocent man. This highlights the conflict between moral truth and societal pressure.
What does the repetition of 'Crucify him' indicate?
The repetition of 'Crucify him' emphasizes the crowd's fervor and unity in their demand, illustrating the power of collective voices in shaping actions, even when those actions are unjust.
What can we learn from Luke 23:21 about standing for truth?
Luke 23:21 teaches the importance of standing firm in one's beliefs and seeking truth, even when faced with overwhelming opposition from the crowd. It serves as a reminder to resist peer pressure and uphold justice.

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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