New Testament
Luke 6:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Woe to you who are well-fed now, for you will go hungry. Woe to you who laugh now, for you will mourn and weep.
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Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep.
What Luke 6:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus warns those who are currently satisfied and carefree, indicating that their present state of comfort will not last. The phrase 'woe to you' signifies a strong warning about the consequences of their current attitudes. Those who are well-fed and laughing may feel secure now, but they will face hunger and sorrow in the future. This reflects a reversal of fortunes, where earthly pleasures can lead to spiritual emptiness. Jesus emphasizes the importance of humility and reliance on God rather than being consumed by materialism and superficial joy. The message serves as a reminder that true fulfillment comes from a relationship with God, not from temporary pleasures or societal status. It challenges listeners to consider their priorities and the eternal implications of their choices, urging them to seek deeper spiritual nourishment instead of fleeting satisfaction.
How to apply Luke 6:25 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our priorities and the sources of our joy. Instead of seeking fulfillment in material possessions or temporary pleasures, we should focus on spiritual growth and reliance on God. Embracing humility and compassion can lead to lasting joy and satisfaction.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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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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Keep studying Luke 6:25
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 6:25 mean?
Luke 6:25 conveys a warning from Jesus to those who are currently comfortable and carefree. It suggests that their present state of satisfaction will lead to future hunger and sorrow, highlighting the importance of spiritual fulfillment over material pleasures.
What is the meaning of 'woe' in Luke 6:25?
In Luke 6:25, 'woe' signifies a strong warning or lamentation. It indicates that those who are well-fed and laughing now will face serious consequences in the future, emphasizing the need for humility and spiritual awareness.
How does Luke 6:25 relate to spiritual hunger?
Luke 6:25 highlights a reversal of fortunes, where those who are currently satisfied may find themselves spiritually hungry later. It serves as a reminder to seek deeper spiritual nourishment rather than temporary satisfaction.
What themes are present in Luke 6:25?
Key themes in Luke 6:25 include warning, reversal of fortunes, spiritual hunger, humility, and the consequences of materialism. The verse encourages reflection on true joy and the importance of prioritizing spiritual growth.
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