New Testament

Luke 24:17

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

He asked them, "What are you discussing with each other as you walk and look sad?"

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?

What Luke 24:17 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus encounters two of His followers who are walking and discussing recent events surrounding His crucifixion. He notices their sadness and asks them what they are talking about. This question highlights His concern for their emotional state and invites them to share their thoughts. The disciples are confused and disheartened, struggling to understand the significance of the events they have witnessed. Jesus' inquiry serves as a gentle prompt for them to express their feelings and doubts. It also sets the stage for a deeper conversation about faith, hope, and the fulfillment of Scripture. This moment illustrates how Jesus engages with His followers, showing empathy and a desire to guide them through their struggles. It emphasizes the importance of communication in times of distress and the need to seek understanding in our faith journeys.

How to apply Luke 24:17 to your life

When faced with sadness or confusion, it's important to talk about our feelings with others. Just as Jesus engaged with His followers, we should seek support and share our struggles. This can lead to healing and a deeper understanding of our faith and circumstances.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of the risen Jesus walking with two disciples on the road to Emmaus

Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–35)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Jesus

An old color photograph of Nazareth spread across a hillside in Galilee.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Nazareth

The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Luke 24:17

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Luke 24:17

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 24:17 mean?

In Luke 24:17, Jesus asks two of His followers about their conversation as they walk, noticing their sadness. This moment highlights His empathy and invites them to share their feelings about the recent events surrounding His crucifixion.

What is the significance of Jesus asking about their sadness in Luke 24:17?

Jesus' question about their sadness serves to engage His followers in conversation, allowing them to express their confusion and disappointment. It emphasizes the importance of communication and support during difficult times.

How does Luke 24:17 relate to communication in times of distress?

Luke 24:17 shows that discussing our feelings, especially during distressing times, is vital. Jesus' inquiry encourages openness and sharing, which can lead to healing and clarity.

What themes are present in Luke 24:17?

Key themes in Luke 24:17 include communication, sadness, empathy, and the importance of understanding in discipleship. This verse highlights how Jesus connects with His followers during their struggles.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.