New Testament

Luke 5:35

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 is speaking about a future time when He will no longer be physically present with His followers, likening Himself to a bridegroom.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

But the time will come when the groom is taken away from them. When that day comes, they will fast."

KJVKing James Version

But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus is speaking about a future time when He will no longer be physically present with His followers, likening Himself to a bridegroom. The reference to fasting indicates a period of mourning or longing for His presence. Fasting is often associated with seeking God and expressing sorrow or need. Jesus implies that His disciples will fast when they feel the absence of their leader, highlighting the deep connection they have with Him. This statement foreshadows His eventual departure through crucifixion and ascension, which will lead His followers to seek Him earnestly in prayer and fasting. The verse emphasizes the importance of spiritual hunger and the need for believers to draw closer to God, especially in times of loss or longing. It also serves as a reminder that while Jesus is not physically present, His followers are called to maintain their relationship with Him through spiritual disciplines like fasting. Explore related discipleship.

How to apply Luke 5:35 to your life

This verse encourages believers to engage in fasting as a way to deepen their relationship with God, especially during times of spiritual dryness or loss. It reminds us to seek God earnestly and to express our longing for His presence through prayer and fasting.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 5:35 mean?

Luke 5:35 means that there will be a time when Jesus, referred to as the bridegroom, will no longer be with His followers. This absence will lead them to fast, indicating a period of longing and mourning for His presence.

What is the significance of fasting in Luke 5:35?

In Luke 5:35, fasting signifies a deep spiritual longing and a way for believers to seek God during times of absence or loss. It reflects the disciples' desire to connect with Jesus even when He is not physically present.

Why did Jesus mention the bridegroom in Luke 5:35?

Jesus mentioned the bridegroom in Luke 5:35 to illustrate His close relationship with His followers and to signify the joy of His presence. His eventual absence will lead them to fast, showing their desire for His return.

How does Luke 5:35 relate to discipleship?

Luke 5:35 relates to discipleship by emphasizing the importance of maintaining a connection with Jesus, even in His absence. It encourages followers to engage in spiritual practices like fasting to deepen their relationship with Him.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

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.

Premium

Unlock the full Luke summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Luke — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 24 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Luke summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.