New Testament
Luke 6:12
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Around that time, Jesus went up on a mountain to pray, and he spent the entire night in prayer to God.
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And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.
What Luke 6:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Jesus taking time away from the crowds and his daily activities to seek solitude in prayer. He goes up a mountain, which symbolizes a place of elevation and closeness to God. Spending the entire night in prayer indicates the importance of communication with God in Jesus' life. This act of prayer shows his dependence on God for guidance and strength, especially as he prepares for significant decisions ahead, such as choosing his twelve apostles. It highlights the value of dedicating time to connect with God, reflecting on one's purpose, and seeking divine wisdom. Jesus' example teaches us that prayer is not just a routine but a vital part of our relationship with God, especially during critical moments in our lives.
How to apply Luke 6:12 to your life
We can learn from Jesus' example by prioritizing time for prayer in our own lives. Setting aside moments of solitude to connect with God can help us seek guidance and clarity in our decisions. It reminds us to rely on God for strength and wisdom.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Choosing the Twelve (Luke 6:12–16)
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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 6:12
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Key themes
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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 6:12 mean?
Luke 6:12 describes Jesus going up a mountain to pray all night, emphasizing the importance of prayer in his life. This act shows his need for solitude and divine guidance before making significant decisions.
What is the significance of Jesus praying all night in Luke 6:12?
Jesus praying all night signifies his deep commitment to seeking God's will and strength. It highlights the importance of dedicating time to prayer, especially before making important choices.
Why did Jesus go to a mountain to pray in Luke 6:12?
Jesus went to a mountain to pray as it symbolizes a place of elevation and closeness to God. This setting allows for solitude and focus, essential for meaningful communication with God.
What can we learn from Luke 6:12 about prayer?
Luke 6:12 teaches us the value of setting aside time for prayer and seeking God's guidance. It encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God, especially during critical moments.
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