New Testament
Luke 23:35
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 a scene of mockery directed at Jesus while he is on the cross.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
The people stood watching. The rulers sneered at him, saying, "He saved others — let him save himself if he really is Christ, God's chosen one!"
And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a scene of mockery directed at Jesus while he is on the cross. The crowd, including the rulers, is watching him suffer and they ridicule him for his inability to save himself. They reference his past miracles, suggesting that if he truly is the Messiah, he should be able to rescue himself from this situation. This moment highlights the disbelief and scorn of those who do not recognize Jesus' true identity and mission. Instead of understanding that his suffering is part of a greater plan for salvation, they challenge him to prove his divinity by saving himself. This reflects a common theme in the Gospels where Jesus is misunderstood and rejected by many, even in his most vulnerable moments. The mockery serves to emphasize the depth of his sacrifice and the fulfillment of prophecy, as he willingly endures this humiliation for the sake of humanity.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 23:35 to your life
This verse challenges us to reflect on our own faith in difficult times. Just as the crowd doubted Jesus, we may face moments of doubt or ridicule for our beliefs. It encourages us to stand firm in our faith, trusting in God's plan even when circumstances seem dire or when we are misunderstood by others.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 23:35 mean?
Luke 23:35 describes the moment when Jesus is mocked while on the cross. The crowd and rulers challenge his identity as the Messiah by saying that if he saved others, he should be able to save himself.
What is the significance of the mockery in Luke 23:35?
The mockery in Luke 23:35 highlights the disbelief of those witnessing Jesus' crucifixion. It emphasizes the scorn he faced and reflects the misunderstanding of his mission, as they fail to see that his suffering is part of a divine plan.
What does 'He saved others' mean in Luke 23:35?
The phrase 'He saved others' in Luke 23:35 refers to the miracles Jesus performed during his ministry, where he healed the sick and raised the dead. The rulers use this to mock him, suggesting that if he truly is the Messiah, he should be able to save himself.
How does Luke 23:35 relate to the theme of faith and doubt?
Luke 23:35 illustrates the theme of faith and doubt by showing how the crowd doubts Jesus' identity and power in his moment of suffering. This moment serves as a reminder of how people may question their beliefs during challenging times.

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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