New Testament
Luke 23:47
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When the Roman centurion saw what had happened, he praised God and said, "There is no doubt — this was a righteous man."
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Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.
What Luke 23:47 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a Roman centurion, a soldier in charge of a hundred men, witnesses the events surrounding Jesus' crucifixion. After observing the manner of Jesus' death and the supernatural occurrences that accompanied it, he acknowledges Jesus' righteousness. This moment is significant as it highlights the centurion's recognition of Jesus' true nature, despite being a Gentile and part of the oppressing Roman authority. His declaration serves as a powerful testimony to Jesus' innocence and divine nature. The centurion's praise of God indicates a transformation in his understanding, suggesting that even those who were initially distant from the Jewish faith can come to recognize the truth of Jesus' identity. This moment emphasizes the impact of Jesus' sacrifice and the acknowledgment of His righteousness by those who witnessed it firsthand.
How to apply Luke 23:47 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize and acknowledge the truth of Jesus' character and sacrifice. Just as the centurion found faith in a moment of crisis, we too can seek understanding and transformation in our own lives, praising God for His righteousness and grace.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Death of Jesus (Luke 23:44–49)
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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 23:47
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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 23:47 mean?
Luke 23:47 describes a Roman centurion who, after witnessing Jesus' crucifixion and the events surrounding it, acknowledges Jesus as a righteous man. This moment highlights the centurion's recognition of Jesus' true nature, despite being a Gentile and part of the Roman authority.
What is the significance of the centurion's statement in Luke 23:47?
The centurion's statement in Luke 23:47 is significant because it represents a powerful acknowledgment of Jesus' innocence and righteousness from someone outside the Jewish faith. It shows that even those who were initially distant from God can recognize the truth of Jesus' identity.
What does the phrase 'righteous man' mean in Luke 23:47?
In Luke 23:47, the phrase 'righteous man' refers to Jesus as someone who is morally upright and innocent. The centurion's use of this phrase emphasizes his belief in Jesus' goodness and the injustice of His crucifixion.
How does Luke 23:47 relate to themes of faith?
Luke 23:47 relates to themes of faith by illustrating how the centurion, a Gentile, comes to recognize Jesus' righteousness in a moment of crisis. This reflects the idea that faith can emerge from unexpected places and individuals.
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