New Testament
Luke 3:28
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, Luke provides 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 Melchi, the son of Addi, the son of Cosam, the son of Elmodam, the son of Er,
Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the son of Cosam, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of Er,
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Luke provides a genealogy that traces the lineage of Jesus Christ. This specific part lists several ancestors, emphasizing the historical and familial connections that lead to Jesus. Each name represents a link in the chain of heritage, showing that Jesus is rooted in a long line of people, which is significant for establishing His identity as the Messiah. The genealogy serves to validate Jesus' claim to be the Son of God by connecting Him to notable figures in Jewish history. It highlights the importance of lineage in Jewish culture, where ancestry was crucial for understanding one's identity and role within the community. By including these names, Luke not only affirms Jesus' human heritage but also fulfills Old Testament prophecies regarding the lineage of the Messiah, reinforcing the belief that Jesus is the promised Savior.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 3:28 to your life
Understanding the genealogy of Jesus can deepen our appreciation for His identity and mission. It reminds us that our own backgrounds and histories shape who we are. We can reflect on our own family stories and how they influence our faith and purpose in life.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 3:28 mean?
Luke 3:28 lists part of the genealogy of Jesus, showing His lineage through several ancestors. This verse emphasizes the historical connections that affirm Jesus' identity as the Messiah.
What is the significance of the names in Luke 3:28?
The names in Luke 3:28 represent a lineage that connects Jesus to important figures in Jewish history. This genealogy highlights the importance of ancestry in establishing Jesus' identity and fulfilling prophecies about the Messiah.
How does Luke 3:28 relate to the concept of heritage?
Luke 3:28 illustrates the significance of heritage by listing Jesus' ancestors, showing how one's background shapes identity. It highlights the cultural importance of genealogy in understanding one's role in the community.
Why is genealogy important in Luke 3:28?
Genealogy in Luke 3:28 is important because it establishes Jesus' human lineage and fulfills Old Testament prophecies. It reinforces the belief that Jesus is the promised Savior by connecting Him to historical figures.

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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