New Testament
Luke 5:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Some men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a mat, trying to find a way to bring him inside and lay him in front of Jesus.
Compare translations
And, behold, men brought in a bed a man which was taken with a palsy: and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before him.
What Luke 5:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a group of men is determined to help their paralyzed friend reach Jesus. They carry him on a mat, showing their commitment and faith. Their efforts highlight the importance of community and support in times of need. The scene illustrates the lengths to which friends will go to help one another, especially when facing significant challenges. The paralyzed man represents those who are unable to help themselves, while the friends symbolize the power of friendship and faith. Their actions set the stage for a miraculous encounter with Jesus, emphasizing that faith can lead to healing and transformation. This moment also foreshadows the miracles that Jesus will perform, showcasing His compassion and authority. The determination of the men to find a way to bring their friend to Jesus reflects the belief that Jesus has the power to heal and change lives, encouraging us to seek help and support from others in our own struggles.
How to apply Luke 5:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to be proactive in helping those in need. Just as the friends carried the paralyzed man, we should support others in their struggles, showing compassion and faith. It reminds us of the importance of community and the impact we can have on each other's lives.
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: Healing a Paralyzed Man (Luke 5:17–26)
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 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; 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.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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 5:18
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 5:18
Related Bible verses
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 5:18 mean?
Luke 5:18 describes a group of men who are determined to bring their paralyzed friend to Jesus for healing. Their actions demonstrate the importance of community support and faith in overcoming obstacles.
What is the meaning of 'paralyzed man' in Luke 5:18?
The 'paralyzed man' in Luke 5:18 symbolizes those who are unable to help themselves due to physical or spiritual challenges. His situation highlights the need for assistance from others and the power of friendship.
Why did the men carry the paralyzed man in Luke 5:18?
The men carried the paralyzed man because they believed that Jesus could heal him. Their determination to bring him to Jesus illustrates the lengths friends will go to support one another.
What themes are present in Luke 5:18?
Key themes in Luke 5:18 include faith, community, support, healing, determination, and friendship. These themes highlight the significance of helping others and the transformative power of faith.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.