New Testament
Luke 3:27
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Luke 3:27, we see a genealogy that traces the lineage of Jesus Christ.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
the son of Joanna, the son of Rhesa, the son of Zorobabel, the son of Salathiel, the son of Neri,
Which was the son of Joanna, which was the son of Rhesa, which was the son of Zorobabel, which was the son of Salathiel, which was the son of Neri,
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Luke 3:27, we see a genealogy that traces the lineage of Jesus Christ. This specific verse lists several ancestors, starting with Joanna and moving back through Rhesa, Zorobabel, Salathiel, and Neri. Genealogies in the Bible serve to establish identity and authority, showing that Jesus is rooted in a significant historical and spiritual lineage. Each name represents a connection to the past, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. This lineage emphasizes Jesus' rightful place in Jewish history and His role as the Messiah. By including these names, Luke not only affirms Jesus' human heritage but also connects Him to the larger narrative of God's plan for salvation. Understanding these connections helps readers appreciate the depth of Jesus' mission and the continuity of God's work through generations.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 3:27 to your life
Reflecting on genealogies can remind us of our own roots and the importance of family history. It encourages us to consider how our backgrounds shape our identities and faith. We can also appreciate the continuity of God's work through generations, inspiring us to be part of that legacy.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 3:27 mean?
Luke 3:27 lists part of Jesus' genealogy, showing His lineage through several ancestors. This verse emphasizes Jesus' connection to significant figures in Jewish history, highlighting His rightful place as the Messiah.
What is the significance of the names in Luke 3:27?
The names in Luke 3:27, including Joanna, Rhesa, Zorobabel, Salathiel, and Neri, illustrate the historical and spiritual lineage of Jesus. Each name represents a link to God's promises and the fulfillment of His plan through generations.
How does Luke 3:27 connect to the theme of heritage?
Luke 3:27 connects to the theme of heritage by tracing Jesus' lineage, reminding readers of the importance of family history. It encourages reflection on how our backgrounds influence our identities and faith.

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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