New Testament
Luke 23:38
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Above him was a sign written in Greek, Latin, and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
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And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
What Luke 23:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Luke 23:38, a sign is placed above Jesus as he is crucified, declaring in three languages—Greek, Latin, and Hebrew—that he is 'The King of the Jews.' This sign serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it identifies Jesus' charge, the reason for his execution, to the diverse crowd present, which included Jews and Romans. The use of three languages signifies the universality of Jesus' message and the reach of his kingship beyond cultural and national boundaries. The title 'King of the Jews' is both a mockery from the Roman authorities and a profound truth about Jesus' identity. It highlights the irony of his kingship, as he is being crucified, yet he embodies the true nature of a king who serves and sacrifices for others. This moment encapsulates the conflict between worldly power and divine authority, emphasizing that Jesus' reign is not of this world but is rooted in love and redemption.
How to apply Luke 23:38 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize Jesus' true identity as our King, even in difficult circumstances. It reminds us that his kingship transcends cultural and societal boundaries, inviting us to embrace his message of love and sacrifice in our own lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Crucifixion (Luke 23:26–43)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Luke 23:38
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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 23:38 mean?
Luke 23:38 describes a sign placed above Jesus during his crucifixion, stating 'THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS' in Greek, Latin, and Hebrew. This sign identifies the charge against him and highlights the irony of his kingship as he is mocked while embodying true authority.
What is the significance of the languages in Luke 23:38?
The use of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew in Luke 23:38 signifies the universality of Jesus' message, making it accessible to a diverse audience. It reflects the cultural and political context of the time, emphasizing that Jesus' kingship transcends national and ethnic boundaries.
What is the context of Luke 23:38?
Luke 23:38 occurs during the crucifixion of Jesus, where a sign is placed above him to indicate the reason for his execution. It serves both as a mockery from the Roman authorities and a declaration of his true identity as the King of the Jews.
Why is the title 'King of the Jews' used in Luke 23:38?
The title 'King of the Jews' in Luke 23:38 is used to mock Jesus by the Roman authorities, yet it also reflects a profound truth about his identity. It highlights the contrast between worldly power and Jesus' true nature as a king who serves and sacrifices.
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