New Testament
Luke 6:46
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 questions why people refer to Him as 'Lord' while failing to follow His teachings.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' but don't do what I say?
And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus questions why people refer to Him as 'Lord' while failing to follow His teachings. The repetition of 'Lord, Lord' emphasizes a deep acknowledgment of His authority, yet their actions contradict their words. This highlights a common issue where individuals may profess faith or allegiance but do not live according to the principles they claim to believe. Jesus is calling for authenticity in faith, urging His followers to not only recognize Him as Lord but to also act in accordance with His commands. This verse serves as a reminder that true discipleship involves both belief and action, and that mere verbal acknowledgment is insufficient without corresponding behavior that reflects His teachings. It challenges believers to examine their lives and ensure that their actions align with their professed faith, reinforcing the idea that genuine faith is demonstrated through obedience to God's word.
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How to apply Luke 6:46 to your life
To apply this teaching, reflect on your own life and consider areas where your actions may not align with your professed beliefs. Strive to live out your faith actively by following Jesus' teachings in daily decisions and interactions, ensuring that your words and actions are consistent.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 6:46 mean?
Luke 6:46 means that Jesus is questioning why people call Him 'Lord' but do not follow His teachings. It emphasizes the importance of aligning one's actions with their professed beliefs.
What is the significance of 'Lord, Lord' in Luke 6:46?
The phrase 'Lord, Lord' signifies a deep recognition of Jesus' authority. However, it highlights the contradiction when people acknowledge Him as Lord yet fail to obey His commands.
How can I apply Luke 6:46 in my life?
To apply Luke 6:46, reflect on your daily actions and ensure they align with your beliefs. Strive to actively follow Jesus' teachings in your decisions and interactions.

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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