New Testament
Luke 24:40
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
As he said this, he held out his hands and showed them his feet.
Compare translations
And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.
What Luke 24:40 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is demonstrating to his disciples that he has truly risen from the dead. By showing them his hands and feet, he provides tangible proof of his physical resurrection. This moment is significant because it reassures the disciples of his identity and the reality of his resurrection, which is central to Christian faith. The wounds in his hands and feet serve as a reminder of his suffering and sacrifice on the cross. This encounter emphasizes the importance of faith in the resurrection and the physical reality of Jesus' body after death. It also highlights the personal relationship Jesus has with his followers, as he takes the time to comfort and confirm their doubts. The act of showing his wounds is a powerful testament to his love and commitment to them, reinforcing the message that he is alive and present with them.
How to apply Luke 24:40 to your life
This verse encourages believers to seek tangible evidence of their faith in Jesus. Just as the disciples needed reassurance, we too can look for signs of Christ's presence in our lives. Sharing our experiences of faith can strengthen our community and help others believe in the reality of Jesus' resurrection.
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.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Appears to His Disciples (Luke 24:36–49)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
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 PlansAsk AI about Luke 24:40
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 24:40
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 24:40 reveal about Jesus' resurrection?
Luke 24:40 shows Jesus presenting his hands and feet to his disciples as proof of his physical resurrection. This act confirms that he is not a ghost or spirit, but has truly risen in bodily form. It emphasizes the reality of his resurrection, which is a cornerstone of Christian belief, reassuring the disciples of his identity and the fulfillment of his promise to rise from the dead.
Why did Jesus show his hands and feet to the disciples?
Jesus showed his hands and feet to the disciples to provide tangible evidence of his resurrection. By revealing the wounds from his crucifixion, he reassured them of his identity and the reality of his return. This moment was crucial for dispelling their doubts and fears, reinforcing their faith in him as the risen Savior and highlighting the significance of his sacrifice.
How can Luke 24:40 strengthen my faith?
Luke 24:40 can strengthen your faith by reminding you that Jesus' resurrection is a historical and physical reality. Just as the disciples needed reassurance, you can seek evidence of Christ's presence in your life. Reflecting on this verse encourages you to trust in the promises of Jesus and to recognize the ways he comforts and supports you, reinforcing your belief in his love and resurrection.
What is the significance of Jesus showing his wounds?
The significance of Jesus showing his wounds lies in the powerful message of his suffering and sacrifice. The wounds in his hands and feet serve as a reminder of the pain he endured for humanity's salvation. This act not only affirms his identity as the crucified and risen Lord but also illustrates his deep love for his followers, providing comfort and assurance that he is alive and present with them.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.