New Testament
Luke 4:23
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, Jesus anticipates the skepticism of the people in His hometown of Nazareth.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
He said to them, "No doubt you'll quote this proverb at me: 'Doctor, heal yourself!' You'll say, 'Do here in your hometown what we've heard you did in Capernaum.'"
And he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus anticipates the skepticism of the people in His hometown of Nazareth. He knows they will challenge Him by quoting a common saying, suggesting that He should perform miracles there just as He did in Capernaum. This reflects their doubt and desire for proof of His authority and power. The proverb 'Physician, heal yourself' implies that a doctor should first help himself before helping others, indicating that they expect Jesus to demonstrate His abilities among them. This moment highlights the struggle Jesus faced in gaining acceptance from those who knew Him best, as they were unable to see beyond their familiarity with Him. Their lack of faith and expectation for miracles creates a barrier to receiving His message and ministry. Jesus uses this moment to illustrate the challenge of being accepted in one's own community, emphasizing that familiarity can breed contempt and skepticism, even towards those who are truly gifted and called by God.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 4:23 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own openness to new ideas and leaders. Just as the people of Nazareth struggled to accept Jesus, we too can be resistant to change or to recognizing the gifts in those we know well. We should strive to remain open-minded and receptive.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 4:23 mean?
In Luke 4:23, Jesus anticipates the skepticism of the people in His hometown, Nazareth. He knows they will challenge Him to perform miracles there, just as He did in Capernaum, reflecting their doubt and desire for proof of His authority.
What is the meaning of 'Physician, heal yourself' in Luke 4:23?
The phrase 'Physician, heal yourself' implies that a doctor should first demonstrate their abilities on themselves before helping others. In this context, it reflects the expectation of the people for Jesus to prove His power among them.
Why did Jesus mention Capernaum in Luke 4:23?
Jesus mentions Capernaum to contrast the miracles He performed there with the skepticism He anticipates from the people in Nazareth. It underscores their expectation for Him to replicate those miracles in His hometown.
How does Luke 4:23 relate to themes of rejection and faith?
Luke 4:23 illustrates the theme of rejection as Jesus faces doubt from His own community. It emphasizes how their lack of faith and familiarity with Him creates obstacles to accepting His authority and message.
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