New Testament
Luke 4:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He rolled up the scroll, handed it back to the attendant, and sat down. Every eye in the synagogue was fixed on him.
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And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him.
What Luke 4:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus has just read from the scroll of Isaiah in the synagogue, proclaiming a message of hope and liberation. After reading, He rolls up the scroll, hands it back to the attendant, and takes a seat. This action signifies the conclusion of His reading and marks a moment of anticipation. The people in the synagogue are captivated, their eyes fixed on Him, indicating their curiosity and expectation about what He will say next. This moment is significant as it sets the stage for Jesus to reveal His identity and mission. The act of sitting down after reading was customary for teachers, and it emphasizes the importance of what He is about to communicate. The attention of the crowd reflects their interest in His authority and the weight of His words, which will soon challenge their understanding of scripture and His role as the Messiah.
How to apply Luke 4:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to pay attention to the teachings of Jesus and to be open to His message. Just as the people in the synagogue were focused on Him, we should also fix our eyes on His words and allow them to transform our lives. Listening actively can lead to deeper understanding and faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Rejected at Nazareth (Luke 4:16–30)
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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.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Luke 4:20
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 4:20 mean?
Luke 4:20 describes a moment when Jesus finishes reading from the scroll of Isaiah in the synagogue. By rolling up the scroll and sitting down, He signifies the end of His reading and prepares to share an important message, capturing the attention of everyone present.
What is the significance of Jesus sitting down in Luke 4:20?
In Luke 4:20, Jesus sitting down after reading indicates His role as a teacher. This act is customary for Jewish teachers and emphasizes the importance of the message He is about to deliver, drawing the crowd's focus.
How does Luke 4:20 relate to the authority of Jesus?
In Luke 4:20, Jesus' authoritative reading and the crowd's rapt attention underscore His role as a teacher and leader. This moment sets the stage for Him to assert His identity as the Messiah and fulfill the prophecies.
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