New Testament
Luke 5:18
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, a group of men is determined to help their paralyzed friend reach Jesus.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
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.
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.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.

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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