New Testament

Luke 23:47

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, a Roman centurion, a soldier in charge of a hundred men, witnesses the events surrounding Jesus' crucifixion.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

When the Roman centurion saw what had happened, he praised God and said, "There is no doubt — this was a righteous man."

KJVKing James Version

Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.

Verse Analysis

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. Explore related messiah.

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

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.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

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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